
The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the new Secretary of Defense in a dramatic late-night session, with Vice President JD Vance breaking a 50-50 tie. Hegseth’s confirmation faced staunch resistance, with all Senate Democrats and three Republicans—Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Mitch McConnell (R-KY)—voting against the nomination.
The opposition cited concerns over Hegseth’s qualifications and personal controversies. Murkowski pointed to allegations of past infidelity and drinking habits, suggesting they demonstrated a lack of judgment necessary for overseeing the military. Hegseth rejected the accusations, and his ex-wife publicly refuted claims of abuse.
🚨BREAKING: President Trump just reacted to Pete Hegseth becoming the next Secretary of Defense:
"I'm honored to have Pete. I think Pete's gonna be a great Secretary of Defense and we're honored to have him."
pic.twitter.com/1FkvwuVTGx— Bo Loudon (@BoLoudon) January 25, 2025
Despite the controversy, Hegseth received critical support from Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), who had initially expressed reservations. Tillis defended his vote, saying that Hegseth’s military background and dedication to reforming the Pentagon aligned with national security interests.
Thank you for your confidence Mr. President.
Thank you for the tie-breaker Mr. Vice President.
Thank you Senators for 50 votes.
This is for the troops. For the warriors. For our country.
America First. Every day. We will never back down. 🇺🇸
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) January 25, 2025
Following the confirmation, President Donald Trump commended Hegseth, asserting that his leadership would restore military strength and discipline. Trump has pushed for reforms within the Defense Department, particularly in rolling back DEI programs that conservatives argue have weakened the focus on combat readiness.
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) January 25, 2025
Hegseth’s confirmation follows the smooth approval of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was confirmed earlier with unanimous Senate support, highlighting the contentious nature of Hegseth’s nomination.
🚨 WTF? Mitch McConnell immediately walked over and CELEBRATED with the Democrats after voting against Hegseth
This man HAS TO GO in 2026.
The people of Kentucky voted for Trump’s mandate—not this anti-Trump BS. pic.twitter.com/bfFZtayx51
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) January 25, 2025
As Hegseth assumes his role, the Pentagon is expected to undergo significant changes, with several top military officials already being reassigned or dismissed under the new administration’s direction.
Come primary season, let us all remember that Senators Susan Collins & Lisa Murkowski voted for this, while opposing Pete Hegseth:
pic.twitter.com/UqPUnRybLU— Jillian Anderson (@Jillie_Alexis) January 24, 2025
Pray for Pete Hegseth to serve as our next Secretary of Defense. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/VVH9V9gOMK
— CatholicVote (@CatholicVote) January 14, 2025