Oklahoma Sen Mullin confident Hegseth will be confirmed, predicts who Democrats will try to sink next
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., is feeling optimistic about the confirmation of Pete Hegseth as defense secretary, despite facing opposition from GOP moderates. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army National Guardsman, successfully cleared a procedural hurdle in the Senate on Thursday, paving the way for a final confirmation vote expected Friday evening. However, Senators Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, have publicly announced their opposition to his nomination, leaving little margin for error as the GOP can only afford one more defection before Hegseth’s confirmation is jeopardized.
In an interview on the “Guy Benson Show” with guest host Jason Rantz, Mullin expressed confidence in Hegseth’s confirmation, stating that there are 50 “hard yes” votes for his approval. Mullin estimated that Hegseth could receive as many as 52 votes, with all Democrats and the moderate Republicans from Alaska and Maine voting against. “He’s definitely being confirmed tomorrow,” Mullin asserted. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he was sworn into office on Saturday.”
The Senate voted 51-49 to advance Hegseth’s nomination on Thursday, triggering up to 30 hours of debate before the final vote. Hegseth has faced intense scrutiny from Democrats on his qualifications for the role, as well as personal allegations regarding his drinking habits and alleged misconduct. Hegseth has vehemently denied these accusations and pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed.
Despite facing additional challenges this week, including reports of alleged alcohol abuse and abuse towards his ex-wife, Hegseth remains steadfast in his pursuit of the defense secretary position. Mullin criticized the use of “anonymous sources with ulterior motives” and stood by Hegseth’s nomination, emphasizing the importance of filling the role with a qualified candidate.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has been vocal in his opposition to Hegseth’s nomination, labeling him as “utterly unqualified” for the position. Schumer urged Republicans to join Democrats in rejecting Hegseth’s candidacy, citing concerns about his ability to lead a large organization effectively.
Looking ahead, Mullin predicted that once Hegseth is confirmed, Democrats will shift their focus to another of Trump’s nominees, Tulsi Gabbard, who has been nominated for director of national intelligence. Mullin suggested that Democratic senators vying for presidential ambitions may use opposition to Trump’s nominees as a platform to gain attention and support within the party.
In conclusion, Mullin highlighted the political dynamics at play in the confirmation process, noting that Democratic senators’ positions on nominees could impact their standing within the party. As the confirmation process unfolds, the fate of Pete Hegseth as defense secretary remains uncertain, with the Senate expected to cast their final votes in the coming days.
