Confirmed: Ex-moderator Hegseth will become Defense Minister

The controversial ex-TV presenter Pete Hegseth becomes Minister of Defense under US President Donald Trump. In the end, the Vice President’s vote was needed for the necessary majority in the Senate JD Vance, which broke a stalemate. Three Republicans voted against Hegseth, including the former majority leader Mitch McConnell. The 44-year-old will head the Pentagon, one of the most important ministries in the USA.

Due to concerns within his own ranks, Hegseth was not sure of the position until the last moment. Hegseth is in the US primarily from his time at the Trump-friendly station Fox News known. He was one of the most controversial candidates Trump nominated for his cabinet. Aside from an unsuccessful bid for a seat in the US Senate for Minnesota, the journalist has no political experience.

Allegations of alcohol abuse and sexual violence

After his nomination, reports about alleged racist and sexist statements by Hegseth, alcohol abuse and sexual assault also caused a stir. Hegseth firmly rejects the allegations. Shortly before the vote, new allegations came to light. The Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren also announced that Hegseth had reported to the Senate that he had paid $50,000 (47,746.37 euros) to a woman who remained anonymous and who had accused him of rape as part of a settlement agreement with a confidentiality clause.

Because there were reservations about his nomination among the Republican ranks, Hegseth held intensive discussions with senators. Nevertheless there was with Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins and McConnell three dissenters. The two senators had openly expressed their concerns.

Former majority leader opposes Hegseth

After saying no to Hegseth, McConnell said the defense secretary was the most important Cabinet member. “Given the gravest threats to U.S. national security interests since World War II, this position is even more important today,” the Republican said.

Hegseth has not yet shown that he will pass the test: He has not said how Taiwan or the Philippines could be defended against a Chinese attack. There was still a substantial exchange about how the USA could counter its opponents through closer alliances. “As soon as he takes office, they will Consequences of failure be more serious than ever before.”

As defense minister, the former soldier is responsible for the most powerful military in the world, 3.5 million military and civilian employees, a budget of around $800 billion as well as armaments projects and major security policy decisions.