REPORT: Hegseth and Bondi Among First Nominees to Face Senate Hearings

With Congress now back in session, it is time to get to work clearing Trump’s cabinet picks. 

This is going to be interesting with Pam Bondi and Pete Hegseth set to be the first to go, especially in regard to Hegseth, who is still facing questions from both sides.  

Pete in Peril 

As soon as Hegseth was named as Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, a lot of ears went up, but not for the reason mine did.  

There were still sexual misconduct allegations creating concern for Hegseth, as he had been accused of assaulting a woman, holding her against her will, as well as a reputation at Fox News as someone who regularly showed up for work hungover. 

The allegations against Hegseth had been investigated, but prosecutors declined to press charges, and police stated that they could not corroborate the story.  

This was still a problem for some on the GOP side of the aisle, with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), having stated, “We’re just going to have a really frank and thorough conversation.” 

Is He Qualified 

What I am about to say is not going to be popular among Trump supporters, but I don’t believe Hegseth is qualified for this position.  

Hegseth is a veteran, and a decorated officer, but he retired as a Major, which means he probably never oversaw more than about 200 troops at a single time, and now we are asking him to oversee about two million troops overall.  

That is not to even mention the political aspects of the job, which he has zero experience in.  

For my money, I want a current or retired full general or admiral in this role because they know the inner workings of the military. They are also quite aware of the problems that need to be fixed, and Hegseth just does not have that experience. If you want my honest opinion, and I would love for Hegseth to prove me wrong, but I think this nomination is a complete and utter joke, and was only made because of his commitment to end woke policies in our Defense Department.  

Trump Standing By 

When Hegseth was initially met with resistance, there were reports that Trump was ready to bail and talking to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to take on the role.  

I would have supported DeSantis for this role, but I would still have the same experience concerns about him that I have about Hegseth. The difference, however, is that DeSantis has been a rock star as governor, so he has proven he can take on bigger roles as well as being able to handle the political side of the job.  

That must have fallen apart, as I believe the deal hinged on Lara Trump taking Rubio’s seat after he is confirmed as Secretary of State. No sooner had those rumors started that Trump reconfirmed his commitment to Hegseth, stating, "Pete Hegseth is doing very well. His support is strong and deep. He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense, one who leads with charisma and skill. Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!" 

We will see soon enough. Since Hegseth is among the first to go before the Senate, we will find out soon enough just how much faith Republicans in the Senate have in turning our military over to Hegseth.