Sen. Joni Ernst, a combat veteran and sexual assault survivor, is facing criticism from within her own party for her initial reservations about President-elect Donald Trump's choice of Pete Hegseth as defense secretary. Hegseth, who has controversial views on women in combat and has faced accusations of sexual assault, has divided opinions among Republicans.
Ernst's reluctance to fully support Hegseth has sparked a backlash, with threats of a potential primary challenge in 2026 and pressure from influential figures in the GOP. The response to Ernst's stance underscores the influence Trump wields within the party and serves as a warning to other lawmakers who may have reservations about Trump's nominees.
