Republicans back Trump's Pentagon nominee Pete Hegseth despite new allegations

Republicans are supporting Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for the Pentagon, despite new allegations of sexual assault from 2017. This comes after Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for attorney general amid his own misconduct allegations. Hegseth met with GOP senators and incoming Vice President JD Vance to build support. He claims he was cleared of the allegations, which include a detailed police report. His lawyer stated the claims were false, and Hegseth settled with the accuser in 2023. Senate Republicans are under pressure to confirm Trump's nominees quickly, despite concerns about proper vetting. Some senators have downplayed the allegations against Hegseth, emphasizing the need to focus on the Pentagon's leadership.