The U.S. Senate is set to hold a final vote on the confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, following a narrow procedural victory on Thursday.
The cloture vote to advance Hegseth’s nomination passed by a slim margin of 51-49, with Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine joining Democrats in opposition.
Hegseth, a 44-year-old Army National Guard veteran and former Fox News host, was nominated by President Donald Trump on November 12, 2024.
During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on January 14, 2025, Hegseth faced intense scrutiny, particularly from Democratic senators. Despite the heated questioning, the committee voted to advance his nomination.
JUST IN: Pete Hegseth clears a procedural hurdle and advances to a final confirmation vote for defense secretary. pic.twitter.com/7kWJmxObTU
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 23, 2025
Senator Lisa Murkowski announced her opposition to Hegseth’s confirmation prior to Thursday’s vote, citing concerns about his past conduct and views.
In a statement, Murkowski highlighted his acknowledged infidelities and previous comments opposing women in combat roles as key factors in her decision.
“Women have served our nation with distinction, overcoming immense obstacles to excel in combat and