McConnell opposes Hegseth on final confirmation vote

SUMMARY

Former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell shocked observers by opposing Pete Hegseth’s confirmation as Defense Secretary in a 51-50 Senate vote that required Vice President JD Vance to break the tie. McConnell’s vote, a reversal from his earlier support to advance the nomination, reflected deep concerns over Hegseth’s qualifications amid escalating global threats. “Effective management of nearly 3 million military and civilian personnel, an annual budget of nearly $1 trillion, and alliances and partnerships around the world is a daily test with staggering consequences for the security of the American people and our global interests,” McConnell stated. “Mr. Hegseth has failed, as yet, to demonstrate that he will pass this test.” McConnell criticized Hegseth for offering “no substantial observations on how to defend Taiwan or the Philippines against a Chinese attack” and lacking a clear strategy to counter adversaries or strengthen alliances.