President-elect Trump said Friday he would support his nominee, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, amid questions about whether allegations of sexual harassment and excessive drinking would block his chances of confirmation.
“Pete Hegseth is doing very well,” Trump told Truth Social. His support is strong and deep. “Fake news is much bigger than you’d be led to believe,” he said, praising Hegseth as a “great student.” “
“He will be a fantastic and energetic Minister of Defense who leads with charisma and skills,” the president-elect added. “Pete is a winner and there is nothing you can do to change that!!!”
The post marks the first time Trump has publicly weighed in in support of Hegseth as he faces increasing questions about his nomination.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, has seen his nomination in jeopardy amid growing allegations of sexual harassment, excessive drinking and other controversial behavior at his former job.
He spent the week meeting with Republican senators and vowing not to back down.
Hegseth could afford just three Republican “no” votes in the 53-seat Senate Republican majority next year and still win confirmation, assuming all Democrats vote against him.
Sources confirmed to The Hill earlier this week that President Trump had raised the possibility of nominating Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, once his strong primary rival, to be Secretary of Defense if Hegseth’s nomination faltered.
