VP Vance Breaks Tie as Senate Confirms Ex-Fox Host Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary

Jan 25, 2025, 03:36 PM

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, was confirmed as the United States Secretary of Defense after a historic narrow vote in the Senate, with Vice President J.D. Vance breaking a 50-50 tie. Three Republican senators—Mitch McConnell, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski—joined all Democrats in opposing his nomination, citing concerns over allegations of sexual misconduct, alcohol abuse, and lack of experience. Accompanied by his wife and seven children, Hegseth was sworn in and emphasized his mission of 'achieving peace through strength.' In his address, he stressed the importance of restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military, and reestablishing deterrence. He stated: 'We don't want to fight wars. We want to deter them... But if we need to fight them, we're going to bring overwhelming and decisive force to close with and destroy the enemy and bring our boys home.' Lawmakers and officials offered mixed reactions, with some praising his appointment and others expressing deep concern over his qualifications.