Friday, January 24, 2025

Hegseth looks in at DOD.

AP reported yesterday that today there would be a vote - 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate advanced the nomination of Pete Hegseth as President Donald Trump’s defense secretary Thursday on a largely party-line vote, despite grave objections from Democrats and stirring unease among Republicans over his behavior and qualifications to lead the U.S. military.

Two Republicans, Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, broke ranks with Trump and his allies who have mounted an extensive public campaign to push Hegseth toward confirmation. The former combat veteran and Fox News host faces allegations of excessive drinking and aggressive actions toward women, which he has denied. The vote was 51-49, with a final vote on confirmation expected Friday.

[...] Still, Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, herself a combat veteran and sexual assault survivor, has signaled her backing.

51-49 is not strong approval, but Joni Ernst has her reasons to be backing Trump's nomination. She's the swing vote, but if switching Vance would break the tie, so it is basically a done deal. Secretary Hegseth a reality.