President-elect Donald Trump expressed his strong support for his nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, in a post on his social media platform, TruthSocial, on Friday morning.
“Pete Hegseth is doing very well. His support is strong and deep,” Trump stated, signaling confidence in Hegseth’s ability to lead the Defense Department despite mounting scrutiny regarding his past conduct.
Hegseth, a former military officer and television personality, is currently facing serious allegations, including excessive drinking, sexual assault, and concerns regarding his treatment of women. Nevertheless, Trump highlighted Hegseth’s qualifications, emphasizing his educational background and military mindset.
“He was a great student – Princeton/Harvard educated – with a Military state of mind. He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense, one who leads with charisma and skill. Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that,” Trump asserted.
Led by President Trump, we're fighting for Pete Hegseth. And we're doing so because Pete Hegseth wil fight for our troops.
— JD Vance (@JDVance) December 6, 2024
For too long, the Pentagon has been led by people who lose wars. Pete Hegseth is a man who fought in those wars.
We've got his back. pic.twitter.com/6n57SSQQ5X
The president-elect’s endorsement follows Hegseth’s meetings with GOP senators, where he sought to demonstrate his fitness for the role. Reports indicate that during his visit to Capitol Hill, Hegseth assured lawmakers that he would refrain from drinking while in office and denied any involvement in sexual misconduct.
In a statement to reporters, Hegseth expressed determination to secure the necessary votes for his confirmation. “So we’re going to earn those votes. We’re fighting all the way through the tape. We’re grateful to have the president’s support because his vision for this Department of Defense is to bring it back to its core capacity,” he declared.
HOLY SH*T
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 5, 2024
Pete Hegseth just excoriated the media and says he doesn't answer to them. Bravo.
"This will NOT be a [confirmation] process tried in media. I don't answer to ANY one in this group – none of you. Not to that camera."
"I answer to President Trump, who received 76… pic.twitter.com/8DI1HpVekI
Trump’s administration has faced challenges with other nominees as well. Notably, his first choice for attorney general, a former congressman, stepped down amid intense scrutiny, and a Florida sheriff, initially selected to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, withdrew his name from consideration.
Pete Hegseth is an AMERICAN HERO & a good friend.
— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellUSA) December 4, 2024
“Why would I back down? I’ve always been a fighter. I’m here for the warfighters. This is personal & passionate for me.”
KEEP FIGHTING PETE!
America’s warfighters need you! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/kQs5Hs6zme
As the confirmation process unfolds, Hegseth’s ability to navigate these controversies will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
