Senate Advances Hegseth's Defense Nomination Despite GOP Opposition; Final Vote Expected Friday

Jan 23, 2025, 08:08 PM

Pete Hegseth's nomination to be Secretary of Defense advanced in the Senate on Thursday after a 51-49 procedural vote cleared the way for a final confirmation. The Senate invoked cloture on Hegseth's nomination, overcoming a Democratic-led filibuster that required a simple majority. Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski joined all Democrats in opposing the motion, reflecting unease among some Republicans over Hegseth's behavior and qualifications to lead the U.S. military. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and President Donald Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon, has faced controversy and allegations of impropriety. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell voted in favor of the nomination. The final confirmation vote is expected to occur on Friday evening after up to 30 hours of debate. Hegseth can afford to lose only one more Republican senator before Vice President Vance would need to cast a tie-breaking vote.