Pete Hegseth faces grilling from Democrats at confirmation hearing as GOP senators voice support

Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, a Mississippi
Republican, kicked off the meeting, taking a moment to recognize the victims of the fires in California, to thank the ranking Democrat on the committee, Sen. Jack Reed, and to introduce the new members of the committee who were sworn into the Senate this month. 

Wicker warned the crowd not to cheer or express approval for the nominee going forward, saying anyone who does so will be removed from the hearing room. Wicker touted Hegseth’s qualifications in his opening remarks and the urgency of the moment on the world stage, while acknowledging the scrutiny that Trump’s pick for defense secretary has faced. 

“If confirmed, Mr. Pete Hegseth would assume the role in a moment of consequence,” Wicker said, saying the U.S. faces the “most dangerous” security environment since World War II. 

“America has entered a window of maximum danger,” Wicker added, urging that the department needs “energetic” leadership.

Wicker posed a question before the committee, saying senators should ask whether the Pentagon’s civilian leadership has proven up to the challenge in the past. He said it has not, saying most of the department’s signature programs run years behind schedule, along with other issues.

“Today’s Department of Defense is no longer prepared for great power competition,” Wicker said. 

“Admittedly, this nomination is unconventional. The nominee is unconventional,” Wicker said, comparing Hegseth to the president-elect in his differences from the norm. “That may be what makes Mr. Hegseth an excellent choice.” 

“In short, I’m confident that Mr. Hegseth, supported by a team of experienced top officials, will get the job done,” Wicker continued.

Wicker said senators should not underestimate the value of Hegseth’s ability to communicate with the military members whom he served alongside, and hinted at the controversies surrounding Hegseth’s nomination.

“Mr. Hegseth has admitted to falling short, as we all do from time to time,” Wicker said, while noting that many of the accusations have come from anonymous sources. 

The chairman stressed that people who have served alongside Hegseth have testified about his character, reading a letter from one individual who touted Hegseth’s leadership and combat experience.