Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, a Sexual Assault Survivor and Combat Veteran, Backs Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary

Jan 15, 2025, 12:25 AM

Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, a sexual assault survivor and combat veteran, has announced her support for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense. Ernst's decision follows Hegseth's confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he addressed concerns regarding his past comments on women in combat roles and allegations of sexual misconduct. Ernst, a member of the Armed Services Committee, stated that after conversations with Hegseth and feedback from Iowans, she will back Trump's choice. She emphasized her commitment to work with Hegseth to enhance the military's lethality, ensure an audit of the Pentagon by 2028, maintain high standards for women in combat, and appoint a senior official to tackle sexual assault within the military ranks. Ernst's endorsement significantly boosts Hegseth's chances of confirmation, as the Republican-led Senate holds 53 seats, and no GOP senators have publicly opposed his nomination.