Key Takeaways:
– Donald Trump’s choice for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, faces multiple accusations.
– These allegations include sexual assault and a drinking problem, all of which Hegseth denies.
– Trump encouraged Hegseth to fight his own battle for approval from Republican Senators.
– Trump, a lifelong teetotaler, is particularly concerned about Hegseth’s alleged drinking issue.
– The President-elect has started discussing a backup plan with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Reports about Pete Hegseth, Former Fox and Friends co-host nominated by Donald Trump to lead the Pentagon, have caused significant concern for the President-elect. Hegseth, his selection for Defense Secretary, confronts various accusations, ranging from sexual assault to issues with drinking. Despite these allegations, Hegseth has firmly stood his ground, denying any truth to these claims.
Trump and Hegseth’s Ordeal
On the road to becoming Defense Secretary, Hegseth has to win over Republican Senators, a path less travelled as opposed to having support directly from the President-elect. However, Trump has notoriously refrained from championing his picks strongly. With Hegseth’s emerging controversies, Trump has decided to stay low and not push too hard for his selections.
No Substance to Be Found, Says Hegseth
Hegseth, who dismissed the accusations against him, has been largely left alone by Trump to fight his own battles. Trump’s focus, it appears, has shifted to preserving his position if his selections draw back or fail in winning approval. This approach turns the spotlight on Hegseth, putting him in the hot seat to prove his capability and integrity.
Trump Troubled by Drinking Accusations Against Hegseth
Trump’s disturbance with reports about Hegseth’s rumored drinking problem is understandable. As a lifelong teetotaler whose brother grappled with alcoholism and died at a young age, this piece of information about Hegseth has particularly shaken Trump. He encouraged Hegseth, who insists he never had a drinking problem, to fight for his job.
Trump Holds Back, Possibly Insulating Himself?
This hands-off attitude by Trump doesn’t come as a surprise. In fact, this posture might just be his shield from any potential fallout if Hegseth decides to withdraw or the Senate denies him confirmation. As of now, Trump has not strongly lobbied senators on Hegseth’s behalf.
Is There a Backup Plan?
It seems like Trump is keeping his options open. He has been in discussion with his former archrival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, indicating a possible backup plan. This tactic is often seen as a sign of the individual souring on someone. Whether there’s truth to this or if it’s a strategic move from Trump remains to be seen.
As this selection process continues, all eyes are on Trump, who seems to be unusually passive about pushing his Pentagon pick. How this unfolds, and the impact it would have on Hegseth’s potential Defense Secretary role, and Trump’s decision-making, are all questions that time will answer.