The US Senate approved the nomination of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense on Friday, reports AP news agency. The Republicans have a small majority (53 compared to 47 Democrats) in the Senate. However, three Republicans voted against Hegseth’s nomination, ending the score at fifty votes in favor and fifty votes against. Vice President JD Vance’s vote was then decisive.
Hegseth’s nomination is seen as a major victory for President Donald Trump after it sparked fierce opposition, especially among Democrats. Some Republicans also spoke out against his candidacy. Hegseth was recently accused of sexual abuse, assault on his ex-wife and alcohol abuse, among other things. He denies all accusations.
It is only the second time in history that a ministerial candidate was elected by the casting vote of the vice president. The first time was in 2017, when Trump nominee Betsy DeVos became Secretary of Education.
Great organization
The three Republicans who voted against Hegseth’s nomination were Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins and Mitch McConnell. According to McConnell, Hegseth has failed to demonstrate that he has the ability to manage an organization as large and complex as the military. “Just the desire to make change is not enough,” he said.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and veteran, has vowed to make major changes at the Pentagon. As secretary, he will oversee 1.3 million military personnel and nearly 1 million civilians who work for the U.S. military.
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Pete Hegseth by casting vote Vice President Vance Secretary of Defense