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Pete Hegseth Confirmed as Defense Secretary After 51-50 Senate Vote, Vance Breaks Tie

Jan 25, 2025, 02:44 AM

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army National Guard veteran, was narrowly confirmed as the new U.S. Secretary of Defense after a 51-50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie. The Senate vote on Friday night ended in a deadlock, with all Democrats and Republican Senators Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and former Majority Leader Mitch McConnell opposing the nomination. Vice President Vance cast the decisive vote to confirm Hegseth, marking only the second time in history that a Vice President has broken a tie for a Cabinet-level nominee. Hegseth's confirmation follows a contentious nomination process, with allegations of misconduct—including sexual misconduct, heavy drinking, and aggressive behavior towards women—raised during Senate hearings. Despite the controversy, Hegseth's appointment is a significant victory for President Donald Trump, who has emphasized a 'peace through strength' approach to national security. Hegseth is expected to implement major reforms at the Pentagon, focusing on military readiness and eliminating what some see as excessive bureaucracy.