Pete Hegseth, a military veteran and television anchor selected by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Pentagon, has completed a productive first week of meetings on Capitol Hill. According to a senior transition official, there have been no definitive rejections of Hegseth's nomination so far.
Despite facing allegations of excessive drinking, mistreatment of women, and embezzlement of money, Hegseth's discussions with lawmakers have primarily centered around his character rather than his plans for the Defense Department. While some senators have yet to commit to supporting Hegseth, his team remains cautiously optimistic about the confirmation process.
Hegseth is scheduled for another round of questioning next week, including meetings with Senators Josh Hawley, Susan Collins, and others. Joining him will be other Trump nominees such as Kristi Noem for the Department of Homeland Security, Linda McMahon for the Department of Education, and Howard Lutnick for the Commerce Department.
Additionally, Kash Patel, Trump's controversial choice to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation, will also engage with lawmakers. It is worth noting that the FBI currently has an independent director whose term has not concluded.
Furthermore, Tulsi Gabbard, selected to serve as Trump's director of national intelligence, is in the process of finalizing plans for a potential visit to Capitol Hill.
