Despite the contentious nature of the hearing, Republican senators, including Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, supported Hegseth’s nomination. Wicker acknowledged the unconventional nature of the nomination but emphasized the need for change within the Department of Defense.
Pete Hegseth’s nomination is seen as a test of President-elect Trump’s influence within the Republican Party. With a slim Republican majority in the Senate, Hegseth can afford to lose no more than three Republican votes if Democrats and independents unite against him. The confirmation process is being expedited, with Republicans aiming to confirm Trump’s nominees by Inauguration Day.