The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the nation’s Secretary of Defense late Friday in a dramatic tie-breaking vote, overcoming vocal opposition and questions surrounding his qualifications and character. This confirmation solidifies President Donald Trump’s national security team as he prepares to take office.
Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, has vowed to instill a “warrior culture” at the Pentagon, emphasizing the need for strength and decisiveness in the face of global threats. Despite his military service in Iraq and Afghanistan, critics raised concerns about his lack of high-level defense experience and past allegations of misconduct, including accusations of heavy drinking and inappropriate behavior.
The Republican-led Senate, however, stood firm in support of Hegseth. Vice President JD Vance cast the decisive vote to break the 50-50 tie, marking a rare moment of division for a Cabinet nominee. This is only the second time in U.S. history a vice president has had to break a tie for a Cabinet confirmation, the first being Betsy DeVos as education secretary during Trump’s first term.
“We have a great Secretary of Defense, and we’re very happy,” President Trump said after the vote, while boarding Air Force One following his visit to California’s fire-damaged areas. Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised Hegseth’s military background, stating, “He will bring a warrior’s perspective to this critical role, and that’s exactly what we need.”
The confirmation faced pushback from some Republicans, including Sen. Mitch McConnell, Sen. Lisa Murkowski, and Sen. Susan Collins, who joined all Senate Democrats in opposing Hegseth. Sen. Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, questioned the choice, saying, “Is Pete Hegseth truly the best we have to offer?”
The contentious vote highlights Trump’s influence over the GOP and his commitment to reshaping his administration with loyal allies. Hegseth’s confirmation serves as a prelude to next week’s Senate hearings for other high-profile Trump picks, including Kash Patel as FBI director, Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
With Hegseth’s confirmation, Trump has made clear that his second term will focus on reinforcing a culture of strength and loyalty within his administration, withstanding criticism to push forward his vision for America’s future.
