President-elect Donald Trump's defense secretary pick, Pete Hegseth, is under scrutiny after it was revealed that he paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault in a settlement agreement that included a confidentiality clause. Hegseth's attorney has stated that he denies the assault allegations and describes the incident as a 'consensual sexual encounter' that took place in October 2017 in Monterey, California.
Monterey city officials confirmed that local police had investigated the alleged sexual assault involving Hegseth, but details remain limited due to confidentiality laws. Hegseth has not faced any criminal charges or civil lawsuits related to the incident.
In response to the woman's potential lawsuit in 2020, Hegseth's attorney disclosed that a settlement was reached to avoid negative repercussions during the 'Me Too' movement. The payment to the woman was described as significantly reduced, and Hegseth believed he was a victim of blackmail.
The alleged assault reportedly occurred at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa during a conference where Hegseth was a speaker. The incident was reported several days later, citing injuries to the woman's thigh.
Despite the allegations, President Trump nominated Hegseth as the defense secretary nominee, a decision that surprised many due to Hegseth's lack of senior military or public office experience. Trump's transition team faced backlash following the news of the assault allegations, but the communications director defended Hegseth's denial of the accusations.
The confirmation process for Hegseth as the United States Secretary of Defense is ongoing, with supporters emphasizing his commitment to national security and the administration's agenda.
