Supporters of President-elect Donald J. Trump are mounting a robust campaign to secure confirmation for Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, despite a slew of accusations and concerns about his qualifications. Backers argue Hegseth, a veteran and former television host, is essential to Trump’s agenda of reforming the Pentagon.
Hegseth’s nomination has been shadowed by allegations of misconduct, including accusations of heavy drinking, financial mismanagement, and a sexual assault claim from 2017. Hegseth denies these allegations, calling them part of a smear campaign. Critics also question his managerial experience, given the Defense Department’s $800 billion budget and workforce of nearly three million. Despite these challenges, Trump remains supportive, urging Hegseth to defend his reputation.
A coalition of conservative organizations and influencers is pressuring Republican senators to back Hegseth. Groups such as the Article III Project, the Heritage Foundation, and Building America’s Future are leveraging ad campaigns, grassroots outreach, and high-profile endorsements to bolster his confirmation. Building America’s Future has spent over $500,000 on ads promoting Hegseth as a victim of a “deep state” campaign, while American Leadership PAC has launched a $1 million campaign emphasizing his commitment to removing “woke nonsense” from the military.
The campaign mirrors the tactics used during the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, with a focus on mobilizing grassroots pressure. Supporters, including former Trump adviser Steve Bannon and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, are coordinating efforts to ensure Republican senators feel the weight of MAGA movement loyalty.
Republican senators, including Armed Services Committee member Joni Ernst, have faced mounting pressure from these groups. Ernst, initially skeptical of Hegseth’s nomination, appeared to soften her stance after targeted ad campaigns and threats of a primary challenge.
Grassroots efforts have also included nearly 31,000 calls, emails, and social media messages urging senators to confirm Hegseth. Advocacy events, such as a planned rally by Navy SEALs and veterans at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, aim to further galvanize public support.
Hegseth is one of several Trump nominees facing intense scrutiny. Kash Patel, Trump’s pick for FBI director, and Tulsi Gabbard, proposed as Director of National Intelligence, have also drawn criticism for past controversies. Despite these challenges, Trump allies view Hegseth’s confirmation fight as a test case for advancing the president-elect’s broader agenda.
