Defense Nominee Hegseth and Ex-Wife Deny Abuse Allegations as Confirmation Advances

Jan 21, 2025, 09:53 PM

Senators have received a sworn affidavit from Danielle Hegseth, former sister-in-law of Secretary of Defense nominee Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host. The affidavit alleges that his behavior caused his second wife, Samantha Hegseth, to fear for her safety, including claims of alcohol abuse and aggressive conduct. Danielle asserts that Pete Hegseth regularly abused alcohol to the point of passing out at family gatherings, made sexist comments suggesting non-consensual sex was acceptable, and made disparaging remarks about Mexican Americans. The affidavit describes instances where Samantha allegedly hid in a closet and had a safe word to call for help. Both Pete Hegseth and Samantha have denied the allegations, with Samantha stating, "There was no physical abuse in my marriage." The allegations surface as Pete Hegseth's nomination, which passed the Senate Armed Services Committee along party lines, heads to the full Senate for confirmation. Republican senators and supporters have dismissed the accusations as a last-minute smear campaign by Democrats.