Trump's Defense Secretary Pick Faces Confirmation Challenges as Pentagon Leadership Uncertainty Looms

Pete Hegseth's controversial nomination raises concerns over women in combat roles, leadership gaps, and allegations of misconduct.

President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday will leave the Pentagon temporarily without confirmed civilian leadership due to the departure of current appointees and pending Senate votes on replacements.
Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee for Defense Secretary, has faced criticism for past comments opposing women in combat roles and allegations of misconduct, including sexual assault and substance abuse, which he denies.
Military chiefs from the Army, Navy, and Air Force may step in as acting service secretaries, an unusual move necessitated by the lack of confirmed civilian appointees.
Hegseth has walked back earlier statements on women in combat, but skepticism remains among Democratic senators and women veterans who argue his views could undermine military effectiveness and morale.
Despite opposition, Hegseth is expected to secure confirmation due to Republican support, though other Trump Cabinet nominees may face tougher scrutiny from GOP senators.