Pete Hegseth Confirmed as US Defense Secretary After Senate Deadlock

The former Fox News host's contentious nomination required Vice President J.D. Vance to cast the deciding vote in a 50-50 Senate split.

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News contributor and military veteran, was narrowly confirmed as US Defense Secretary, despite significant opposition from both Democrats and three Republican senators.
Hegseth's confirmation followed a 50-50 deadlock in the Senate, resolved by Vice President J.D. Vance's tie-breaking vote.
The nomination was controversial due to allegations of sexual misconduct, alcohol abuse, and domestic violence, which Hegseth has denied or dismissed as part of a smear campaign.
Critics, including Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, questioned Hegseth's qualifications and readiness to lead the Pentagon during heightened global security challenges.
Hegseth has vowed to implement an 'America First' defense strategy, aiming to restore what he calls a 'warrior culture' in the military, while opposing diversity and inclusion initiatives.