Pete Hegseth Faces Tight Senate Vote for Defense Secretary Amid Allegations

Donald Trump's nominee for defense secretary is under scrutiny for allegations of sexual misconduct, domestic abuse, and financial mismanagement.

Pete Hegseth's confirmation process has been contentious, with the Senate narrowly voting 51-49 to advance his nomination to a final vote scheduled for Friday.
Hegseth admitted to paying $50,000 in 2017 to settle a sexual assault allegation, which he denies, claiming the encounter was consensual.
A sworn affidavit from Hegseth's former sister-in-law alleges domestic abuse against his second wife, though she denies the claims of physical abuse but has not refuted fears for her safety.
Democratic senators and two Republican senators, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, have raised concerns about Hegseth's personal conduct, alcohol abuse, and lack of management experience.
Despite the controversies, Hegseth has received strong support from most Republican senators and Donald Trump, who emphasized his military background and commitment to restoring a 'warrior' ethos.