Republicans back Hegseth for Pentagon as Gaetz steps aside for attorney general role

Republicans are supporting Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for the Pentagon, despite allegations of sexual assault from 2017. This comes as Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for attorney general, citing he had become a distraction amid his own misconduct allegations. Hegseth's nomination is moving forward, with GOP senators expressing confidence in him. They have largely avoided criticizing Trump's nominees, even as concerns about their backgrounds grow. Hegseth claims he was cleared of the allegations against him, which he describes as false. Senate Republicans face pressure to confirm nominees quickly, but some are calling for thorough vetting. The confirmation process will require a simple majority, and senators emphasize their constitutional role in reviewing nominations.