GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski says she’s “unable to support” Hegseth for defense secretary
Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski said Thursday she “cannot support” Pete Hegseth as defense secretary. She is the first Republican to speak out against President Trump’s nominee ahead of a Senate confirmation vote.
The Alaska Republican was viewed on Capitol Hill as a likely “no” vote and gave Hegseth a pointed nod over his views on women in combat, his character and his lack of an FBI background check. question.
“Defense leaders must demonstrate and model the standards of behavior and character we expect of all service members, and Mr. Hegseth’s nomination raises significant concerns that I cannot ignore,” Mercosi said in a lengthy statement Thursday. “Given the global security environment we find ourselves in, our confirmation of the Secretary of Defense is vital, but I regret that I cannot support Mr. Heggs.”
Murkowski praised his military service and advocacy for veterans but said those factors “do not allay the significant concerns I have about his nomination.”
She pointed to his record leading two veterans organizations, noting that his leadership “has been accused of financial mismanagement and problematic workplace cultures that he fostered.”
Murkowski noted that he had “recently revised his statement regarding women in combat since being nominated” and said she remained “feelings at confirming Mr. Hegseth’s message to women who are serving and those who aspire to join.” Worry”.
It was unclear whether any other Republicans would also vote against Hegseth, the 44-year-old Army veteran and Fox News host. Hegers will need a simple majority in the Senate to be confirmed, and if there is a tie, Vice President J.D. Vance can break the tie.
Murkowski said she carefully reviewed Hegseth’s writings and other materials and received “substantial feedback” from constituents, veterans and other organizations.
“After a thorough evaluation, I must conclude that I cannot in good conscience support his nomination to serve as Secretary of Defense,” she wrote.
