Sen. Elizabeth Warren has raised concerns about President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, in a detailed letter outlining various accusations and questions she expects him to address at his upcoming confirmation hearing.
Warren, who serves as the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, penned a 33-page letter to Hegseth last week, expressing her belief that he is unfit to serve in the role. She referred to Hegseth as an 'insider threat' due to a tattoo she claims is linked to 'right-wing extremism.'
In her letter, Warren stated, 'Your confirmation as Secretary of Defense would be detrimental to our national security and disrespect a diverse array of servicemembers who are willing to sacrifice for our country.' She highlighted concerns about Hegseth's behavior and rhetoric, questioning his ability to lead the Department of Defense.
The letter contains accusations of financial mismanagement during Hegseth's tenure at two nonprofits, as well as allegations of heavy drinking and sexual assault. Warren accused Hegseth of 'gross mismanagement,' citing debt accumulation and personal use of business funds. She referenced past colleagues who reportedly witnessed these actions.
Additionally, Warren raised questions about Hegseth's drinking habits, citing multiple incidents of alleged excessive or inappropriate drinking in public. She inquired whether Hegseth would consider resigning if such behavior were to recur.
Warren also criticized Hegseth's policy positions, particularly his comments on women in the military. She highlighted remarks suggesting that only men should serve in combat roles and questioned his stance on issues such as access to birth control for single women in the military.
The letter serves as a comprehensive examination of Hegseth's background and public statements, signaling Warren's intent to scrutinize his qualifications and fitness for the position of Defense Secretary.