Hegseth Approved to Lead Department of Defense in Photo Finish Vote

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was recently confirmed by a slim 51-50 Republican majority, dispelling doubts he would be able to secure an approval vote. 

Hegseth thanked the Senate for their support and pledged to diligently lead America's military and promoting global peace through strength.

President Donald Trump had reportedly antecedently doubted Secretary Hegseth’s approval chances, stating he hoped “(Hegseth) makes it,” but that “you never know with these things.”

President Trump’s nomination of Hegseth has been amongst his most controversial cabinet picks after reports emerged suggesting sexual misconduct and mistreatment of women from Hegseth.

Notwithstanding such reports, Hegseth has recently enjoyed a groundswell of conservative support.

However, Hegseth had three Republicans, Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) oppose his confirmation. 

One more Republican votes against would have sunk Hegseth’s nomination. 

Trump had previously speculated Senator McConnell would oppose Hegseth’s nomination. 

“And of course, Mitch is always a no vote, I guess,” Trump said. “Is Mitch a no vote? How about Mitch?…Let’s see what happens.”

However, Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote in favor of Hegseth, putting him over the finish line and at the helm of the strongest military in the world. 

Senator Murkowski cited Hegseth’s questionable moral lapses as prompting her opposition to his nomination. 

“The past behaviors Mr. Hegseth has admitted to…demonstrate a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces,” said Murkowski. 

Conversely, myriad conservative senators came to Hegseth’s aid, pointing to his resolve to remain apolitical and laser-focus on optimizing the military’s effectiveness.