Sen. Joni Ernst Endorses Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, officially endorsed Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense on Tuesday night.
A Strong Choice Following Challenges
Despite some initial uncertainty surrounding their first meeting, Ernst expressed her support, stating, “After four years of weakness in the White House, Americans deserve a strong Secretary of Defense.” This endorsement comes at a critical time as the nation anticipates a shift in defense leadership under President-elect Donald Trump.
In an exclusive statement to Fox News Digital, Ernst emphasized the importance of Hegseth’s selection, highlighting Trump’s decision to appoint him for this vital role. “Our next commander in chief selected Pete Hegseth to serve in this role, and after our conversations, hearing from Iowans, and doing my job as a United States Senator, I support President Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense,” she said.
Focus on Military Readiness and Reform
Ernst currently serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and promised to collaborate with Hegseth to enhance military readiness. “I will work with Pete to create the most lethal fighting force and hold him to his commitments of auditing the Pentagon, ensuring opportunity for women in combat while maintaining high standards, and selecting a senior official to address and prevent sexual assault in the ranks,” she affirmed.
Hegseth’s nomination to lead the Department of Defense came before the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier that day. There, he faced intense scrutiny from both Democratic and Republican senators.
Key Points Raised During Confirmation Hearings
The confirmation hearings were not without contention. Ernst, dedicated to addressing issues of sexual assault within the military, questioned Hegseth directly on his plans to tackle this issue. As a survivor of sexual assault herself, Ernst voiced her commitment to this cause. “A priority of mine has been combating sexual assault in the military and making sure that all our service members are treated with dignity and respect. This has been so important,” she stated during the hearings.
She recounted efforts alongside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to improve the Uniform Code of Military Justice, advocating for enhanced protections for service members affected by these serious issues. “It will demand time and attention from the Pentagon under your watch if you are confirmed,” she urged Hegseth.
Commitment to Sexual Assault Prevention
Ernst didn’t shy away from pressing Hegseth on whether he would appoint a senior-level official dedicated to sexual assault prevention and response if confirmed. Hegseth responded affirmatively, indicating his support for this crucial initiative.
Ernst’s initial hesitation about endorsing Hegseth had been evident before. During an earlier appearance on “America’s Newsroom,” she agreed with anchor Bill Hemmer that she was not quite ready to wholly endorse him. However, her definitive backing now positions Hegseth more favorably in the confirmation process.
The Path to Confirmation: Challenges Ahead
Hegseth’s key supporter, Ernst, will play a vital role in rallying Republican lawmakers around his confirmation. In the tightly contested Senate landscape, he will primarily need the support of nearly every Republican senator to be confirmed, with little room for dissent — potentially losing just two votes. The political calculus shifts, however, if any Democrats choose to cross party lines and support him, which would provide additional flexibility.
Yet, despite Ernst’s endorsement, Hegseth faced tough interrogation from Democratic senators during the hearings, who raised concerns regarding prior allegations concerning his conduct. Questions centered around allegations of alcohol abuse, sexual misconduct, and financial mismanagement. While Hegseth has categorically denied these accusations, Democratic senators emerged from the hearings expressing skepticism regarding his candidacy.
