Overview

• Pete Hegseth, Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, is under scrutiny following allegations of problem drinking and past misconduct raised by former colleagues and media reports.
• Sen. Markwayne Mullin defended Hegseth on CNN, attributing his drinking habits to common struggles faced by combat veterans and criticizing the media for mischaracterizing his behavior.
• Some Senate Republicans, including Joni Ernst, have withheld support for Hegseth, citing concerns about his qualifications and allegations of sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse.
• Donald Trump and his allies have strongly backed Hegseth, with Trump affirming his support on social media and conservative groups launching ad campaigns to rally Senate votes.
• Hegseth continues to meet with senators to build support for his confirmation, while critics raise questions about his past actions and suitability to lead the Department of Defense.