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Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, a Mississippi Republican, began the meeting by taking a moment to honor the victims of the California fires, thanking the committee’s Democratic ranking member, Senator Jack Reed, and introducing new members. Members of the committee were sworn in by the Senate this month.
Wicker warned the crowd not to cheer or express approval of the candidates in the future and said anyone who did so would be ejected from the hearing room. In his opening remarks, Wicker emphasized Hegseth’s qualifications and their urgency on the world stage while acknowledging the scrutiny of Trump’s choice for secretary of defense.
“If confirmed, Pete Hegseth will ultimately assume that role,” Wicker said, adding that the United States faces the “most dangerous” security environment since World War II.
“America faces its greatest danger,” Wicker added, calling for “energetic” leadership in the department.
Wicker posed a question to the committee, saying senators should ask whether the Defense Department’s civilian leadership has risen to the challenge in the past. He said that’s not the case, saying most of the department’s major programs are running years behind schedule, among other problems.
“Today’s Department of Defense is no longer prepared for great power competition,” Wicker said.
“Of course, this nomination is unconventional. The candidate is unconventional.” Wicker said, comparing Hegseth to the president-elect in his differences from the norm. “This may be what makes Mr. Hegseth an excellent choice.”
“In short, I am confident that Mr. Hegseth, supported by a team of experienced senior officials, will get the job done,” Wicker continued.
Wicker said senators should not underestimate the value of Hegseth’s ability to communicate with the soldiers he served with, alluding to the controversy surrounding Hegseth’s nomination.
“Mr. Hegseth has admitted to falling short, as we all do at times,” Wicker said, noting that many of the accusations came from anonymous sources.
The chairman emphasized that those who served with Hegseth testified about his character, reading a letter from an individual touting Hegseth’s leadership and combat experience.
