Pete Hegseth Rebukes Sen. Hirono’s Attack Over Anonymous, Debunked Reports

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, firmly countered accusations from Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) during his Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing. Hirono cited anonymous reports claiming Hegseth drank on the job at Fox News—allegations refuted by numerous former colleagues and associates.

Hirono opened her questioning by referencing these reports, asking Hegseth if he was aware that being intoxicated at work violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Cutting him off before he could fully respond, she demanded a simple “yes or no” answer, preventing him from defending himself against the claims.

“These are multiple false anonymous reports peddled by NBC News that run directly contradictory to the dozens of men and women at Fox News Channel who I worked with, who came on the record and said they’ve never seen that,” Hegseth replied.

Despite Hirono’s insistence that he directly answer her question, Hegseth stood by his response, supported by overwhelming public endorsements from colleagues and friends.

A list of prominent figures, including his former Fox & Friends Weekend co-host Will Cain, investigative journalist Lara Logan, and podcast host Dan Bongino, have publicly refuted the allegations. These individuals, among others, emphasized Hegseth’s professionalism and integrity during their time working with him.

Hegseth’s attorney, Tim Parlatore, also pointed out the disparity between the anonymous accusations and the many on-the-record statements defending Hegseth. “The sheer number of Fox News employees who have come out over the past 24 hours on the record with their names to debunk these claims vastly outweighs the unverifiable anonymous claims,” Parlatore told The Washington Post.

The controversy underscores the tense nature of Hegseth’s confirmation process, as Democrats question his record while his supporters praise his character and leadership. Hegseth remains resolute in addressing these attacks as he moves closer to leading the Department of Defense under President Trump’s administration.

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