Collins Pushes Hegseth on Misconduct Allegations and Policy Stances
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, remains undecided on President-elect Donald J. Trump’s pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, following a private meeting. During their discussion, which lasted over an hour, Collins questioned Hegseth on key policy issues and the misconduct allegations surrounding him. She emphasized her intent to make a decision only after a comprehensive vetting process, including an FBI background check and a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing set for January.
“I pressed him on both his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him,” Collins said, describing their session as “good, substantive.” However, her comments made it clear that Hegseth has yet to secure her support.
Collins, who will lead the influential Appropriations Committee in the next Congress, has been vocal about her concerns. Allegations of sexual misconduct, harassment in the workplace, public intoxication, and fiscal mismanagement have shadowed Pete Hegseth’s nomination. Collins also used the meeting to address defense procurement reforms, women’s roles in the military, and sexual assault issues, as well as NATO and Ukraine.
Hegseth Faces Republican Skepticism Amid Support Efforts
Following their meeting, Hegseth acknowledged the uncertainty of Collins’ position. “I am not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” he told reporters, adding that he hoped to eventually earn her backing through the confirmation process.
Pete Hegseth’s path to confirmation remains narrow, as he will likely require the votes of all but three Republican senators. This week, he has worked to sway skeptical members, including Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska. Similar to Collins, Murkowski refrained from endorsing Hegseth following their meeting, calling it a “good exchange” and withholding further comment until the process progresses.
In contrast, Hegseth found more favorable ground with Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa. Ernst, who had initially appeared resistant to his nomination, shifted her stance after facing significant pressure from Trump-aligned political allies. Following a second meeting, Ernst publicly backed Hegseth, stating, “I will support Pete through this process” and underscoring her hope for a fair hearing free from reliance on anonymous allegations.
Next Steps in the Confirmation Battle
Pete Hegseth continues to engage with other key Republican senators to shore up support ahead of the Senate hearing. He is scheduled to meet with Senator Todd Young of Indiana, another undecided member, who has not yet expressed his position.
Supporters of Hegseth have dismissed the allegations against him, arguing that they lack merit unless his accusers step forward publicly. Despite the controversy, Hegseth remains optimistic. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with senators, calling the process “amazingly educational.”
As the Senate Armed Services Committee prepares for its January confirmation hearings, the outcome of Hegseth’s nomination remains uncertain. Collins’ and Murkowski’s positions are likely to play a pivotal role in the final decision, as Pete Hegseth navigates a divided Republican caucus.
