Republican Senator John Kennedy expressed his belief that President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet picks should undergo background checks, stating that he would prefer the FBI to conduct them. However, Kennedy also acknowledged the capabilities of congressional committee staff and their collaboration with the FBI in investigative work.
Kennedy emphasized the importance of thoroughly vetting nominees, particularly in light of recent allegations. He mentioned the need to address concerns surrounding Department of Defense pick Pete Hegseth, including allegations related to his treatment of women.
Regarding a report about an email allegedly sent by Hegseth's mother criticizing his behavior towards women, Kennedy described it as one of the most serious allegations he had encountered. He stressed the importance of verifying such claims before drawing conclusions.
While Kennedy expressed a desire to hear Hegseth's perspective on the allegations, he also cautioned against blindly accepting information found on the internet as true. He highlighted the need for a thorough and fair assessment of all relevant information.
As discussions continue regarding the nomination process for Trump's Cabinet members, Kennedy's call for comprehensive background checks underscores the importance of ensuring the integrity and suitability of individuals selected for key government positions.