C-SPAN Host Challenges GOP Lawmaker Over Pete Hegseth Assault Allegation Claims

Mimi Geerges fact-checks Rep. Rich McCormick's assertion that Hegseth does not know his accuser, citing a settlement paid by the defense secretary nominee.

• C-SPAN host Mimi Geerges corrected Rep. Rich McCormick after he falsely claimed that Pete Hegseth does not know the identity of the woman accusing him of sexual assault.
• Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for defense secretary, previously paid a confidential settlement to the woman in 2020 to prevent a lawsuit over the alleged 2017 incident.
• The accuser alleged that Hegseth, while intoxicated, blocked her from leaving a hotel room and raped her; Hegseth has denied the allegations, describing the encounter as consensual.
• McCormick maintained during the interview that the allegations were based on anonymous tips, despite evidence of a police report and settlement confirming the accuser’s identity.
• Hegseth’s confirmation process has been clouded by allegations of sexual misconduct, excessive drinking, and a whistleblower report, though he continues to lobby for support with backing from Trump.

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