‘COMMENDABLE RECORD’ Hegseth picks up another key vote for confirmation as Trump’s defense secretary
SUMMARY
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) has pledged to vote for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense. Hegseth, an Army combat veteran, faced rigorous questioning during his Senate Armed Services Committee hearing but emerged with substantial Republican support. Cassidy praised Hegseth’s qualifications, saying, “The President’s pick for Secretary of Defense, Mr. Hegseth, has impressive academic qualifications, conducted himself very well in the Senate Armed Services hearing, and has a commendable record of service in uniform. He assured me he will surround himself with a strong support team. I will vote for his confirmation.” Hegseth has also gained support from other GOP senators, including Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who had earlier expressed concerns. During the hearing, Hegseth defended his positions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining military standards and vowing to focus on readiness and leadership.
