GOP senators back Hegseth amid assault allegations as Cabinet picks face scrutiny
Vice President-elect JD Vance brought two potential Cabinet members to the Senate, but only one remains in consideration. Matt Gaetz withdrew as attorney general amid sexual misconduct allegations, shortly after Pete Hegseth faced questions about his own assault accusations. Hegseth, nominated for defense secretary, stated he was cleared of allegations from 2017. Republican senators defended him, emphasizing that no charges were filed and dismissing concerns as media attacks. They expressed confidence in his nomination process. Despite the controversy, Trump continues to support Hegseth. The Senate will control the confirmation process in January, but it remains uncertain if Trump will pursue recess appointments to bypass it.