Trump’s Defense Secretary Pick Pete Hegseth Takes Oath of Office/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pete Hegseth was sworn in as Secretary of Defense on Saturday, following a contentious confirmation process that required a tie-breaking vote by Vice President JD Vance. Despite allegations of past misconduct and dissent from key Republican senators, Hegseth promised to restore a “warrior ethos,” prioritize U.S. military strength, and deliver “peace through strength” during his tenure.
Hegseth Sworn in as Defense Secretary: Quick Looks
- Contentious Confirmation: Approved by the Senate with a 50-50 vote, broken by VP JD Vance.
- Trump’s Praise: Trump congratulated Hegseth, calling him a “great Secretary of Defense.”
- Hegseth’s Vision: Vowed to rebuild the military and emphasize “peace through strength.”
- Republican Dissent: Senators Collins, Murkowski, and McConnell voted against his confirmation.
- Historic Moment: Hegseth was sworn in with his wife and seven children present.
Side Headlines:
- “Controversial Nominee Pete Hegseth Takes Pentagon’s Top Role”
- “VP JD Vance Casts Tie-Breaking Vote to Confirm Hegseth”
- “Trump Stands Firm on Hegseth: ‘Winning Is What Matters’”
- “McConnell Votes Against Hegseth, Celebrates with Democrats”
Trump’s Defense Secretary Pick Pete Hegseth Takes Oath of Office
Deep Look
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, was officially sworn in as Secretary of Defense on Saturday morning, ending a turbulent confirmation process marked by allegations of sexual misconduct, drinking issues, and divisive Senate hearings.
Hegseth took the oath of office alongside Vice President JD Vance, who cast the deciding vote in the Senate’s 50-50 split. Hegseth’s wife and seven children attended the ceremony, standing proudly as he pledged to lead the Department of Defense with strength and resolve.
Hegseth’s Vision for the Pentagon
After the swearing-in, Hegseth delivered remarks outlining his priorities. He emphasized rebuilding the U.S. military, restoring the “warrior ethos,” and delivering “peace through strength.”
“We will bring overwhelming and decisive force to destroy the enemy and bring our boys home,” Hegseth declared. “We don’t want to fight wars; we want to end them responsibly.”
Trump’s Endorsement and Response to Dissent
President Donald Trump congratulated Hegseth on Truth Social, writing, “Congratulations to Pete Hegseth. He will make a great Secretary of Defense!” Speaking later on the tarmac at LAX following his California wildfire tour, Trump dismissed concerns over the narrow confirmation margin.
“I just heard that we won. Winning is what matters,” Trump said, brushing aside questions about Republican dissent, including Senator Mitch McConnell’s surprising “no” vote.
A Contentious Path to Confirmation
Hegseth’s nomination faced significant hurdles, with several senators raising concerns about his past conduct and qualifications. Allegations of sexual misconduct, drinking issues, and questionable business practices cast a shadow over his confirmation.
Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) voted against Hegseth, citing concerns about his testimony and ability to lead. McConnell stated, “In public comments and testimony… Mr. Hegseth did not reckon with this reality.”
Despite the opposition, Trump and his allies rallied support, ensuring Hegseth’s confirmation through Vice President Vance’s tie-breaking vote.
Hegseth’s Supporters Speak Out
Hegseth credited his confirmation to unwavering support from his family, allies, and military colleagues. “Every time I stand at a podium, the first thing that goes through my head are the guys I served with on the battlefield,” he said.
Republican Divisions Highlighted
While Hegseth’s confirmation underscored Trump’s influence within the GOP, it also revealed fractures in the party. McConnell’s vote against Hegseth—and his celebration with Democrats after the vote—highlighted the tensions between Trump-aligned Republicans and traditional conservatives.
Trump, however, shrugged off the dissent, emphasizing his ability to push his nominees through.
What’s Next for Hegseth?
As Defense Secretary, Hegseth faces significant challenges, including addressing global threats, modernizing the military, and navigating internal issues like diversity and sexual assault prevention.
His tenure will also test Trump’s “America First” agenda within the Pentagon, as Hegseth seeks to balance the president’s vision with the demands of a global military force.
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