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Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s controversial pick for Defense Secretary, addressed mounting allegations against him during an interview with Megyn Kelly on Wednesday. The former Fox News host and Army veteran, known for his outspoken views and military service, dismissed many of the claims as exaggerated or false, while defending his qualifications and character.
Hegseth, who has faced criticism over alleged sexual harassment, heavy drinking on work trips, and opposition to women in combat, described the media’s portrayal of him as part of a calculated smear campaign. Adding fuel to the fire, a 2018 email from his mother, calling him an “abuser of women,” was recently published by The New York Times.
Despite the backlash, Hegseth revealed that he has Trump’s unwavering support. Recalling a recent conversation, he quoted Trump as saying, “Pete, I’ve got your back. It’s a fight; they’re coming after you. Get after it.” Trump also assured him, “You’re the man for this moment,” encouraging him to stand firm.
Hegseth shared that Trump likened the situation to a battle, echoing the fiery rhetoric that has become synonymous with Trump’s political approach. According to Hegseth, the President-elect emphasized the need for resilience, telling him to be “tough as sh*t.”
Hegseth compared his current struggles to those of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who faced intense scrutiny and unverified allegations during his confirmation hearings.
In his interview with Kelly, Hegseth said a Republican lawmaker recently told him in private, “That’s what they’re trying to do to you… It’s their playbook.” The lawmaker warned that Hegseth should prepare for more anonymous accusations, rumors, and innuendos, characterizing them as a strategy to undermine his nomination.
“Kavanaugh stood up, and he fought, and he won,” Hegseth said, expressing hope that Republicans would back him with the same resolve. “What you’re seeing right now with me is the art of the smear,” he added, calling the allegations part of a coordinated effort to derail his confirmation.
In addition to his on-air defense, Hegseth penned an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, addressing some of the controversies. He admitted to occasionally drinking with colleagues during his tenure at veterans’ organizations but firmly denied any improper behavior.
“We weren’t perfect, but we were always honest and earnest,” Hegseth wrote. “We raised money honestly and spent it earnestly—to advance our cause. Like veterans returning from any war, we drank beers to manage the reality of what we had faced. But we never did anything improper, and we treated everyone with respect.”
Hegseth dismissed the allegations of excessive drinking and misconduct as distortions of minor truths. “Take whatever tiny kernels of truth—and there are tiny, tiny ones in there—and blow them up into a masquerade of a narrative about somebody that I am definitely not,” he told Kelly.
Hegseth’s nomination has drawn sharp criticism due to his controversial views and outspoken nature. He has long opposed women serving in combat roles, a stance that has alienated some lawmakers. However, his supporters argue that his military experience and dedication to veterans’ issues make him uniquely qualified for the position.
Critics have seized on the 2018 email from Hegseth’s mother, in which she described him as an “abuser of women.” While Hegseth has not publicly addressed the email, its resurfacing has added to the media frenzy surrounding his nomination.
Amid the growing controversy, Hegseth is actively meeting with senators on Capitol Hill to address concerns and rally support for his confirmation. He expressed optimism about his ability to secure the votes needed, despite acknowledging the uphill battle.
“It’s a fight,” Hegseth said. “They’re coming after me, but I’m ready.”
He also expressed gratitude for Trump’s faith in him, noting the importance of the role and his commitment to serving the country.
As the confirmation process looms, Hegseth’s nomination is expected to face intense scrutiny. Republican lawmakers will need to weigh his qualifications against the controversies surrounding his personal and professional history.
Hegseth’s defenders argue that the attacks are politically motivated, designed to block a staunch Trump ally from leading the Defense Department. His critics, however, contend that his record raises serious questions about his ability to serve effectively in such a critical role.
For now, Hegseth remains defiant, channeling Trump’s combative spirit and signaling that he is prepared for the fight ahead. Whether he can secure the necessary support in the Senate remains to be seen, but his nomination underscores the deep partisan divisions shaping Washington as a new administration takes shape.