Key Senate chairman criticizes ‘anonymous sources with ulterior motives,’ stands by Hegseth nomination
Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker, a key senator on the Armed Services Committee, has come out in support of President Donald Trump’s Secretary of Defense nominee, Pete Hegseth. Wicker is pushing back against what he calls “anonymous sources with ulterior motives” who are trying to cast doubt on Hegseth’s character.
In a statement on Wednesday, Wicker criticized recent reports on a confidential briefing on the FBI background investigation of Hegseth as “starkly and factually inaccurate.” He stated that he has received three separate, detailed briefings on the FBI’s background investigation and stands by Hegseth.
Wicker’s defense of Hegseth comes in response to a CNN report that cited anonymous sources claiming that Hegseth’s ex-wife, Samantha Hegseth, gave a statement to the FBI about his alleged alcohol use. One of the sources said Samantha Hegseth told the FBI, “He drinks more often than he doesn’t.”
Despite these allegations, Wicker remains firm in his support for Hegseth. He stated, “After this thorough review, I am ironclad in my assessment that the nominee, Mr. Hegseth, is prepared to be the next Secretary of Defense, and that the allegations unfairly impugning his character do not pass scrutiny.”
Wicker emphasized that Hegseth has the confidence of President Trump and the backing of Senate Republicans. He called on the Senate to confirm the nominee “as fast as possible” during this “precarious national security moment.”
Hegseth’s nomination process has not been without controversy. Fox News obtained an affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth, alleging that he has an alcohol abuse problem and at times made his ex-wife, Samantha, fear for her safety. Danielle Hegseth clarified that she never witnessed any abuse herself, physical or sexual, from Pete against Samantha.
Samantha Hegseth has also denied any physical abuse in a statement reported by NBC News. She stated, “There was no physical abuse in my marriage. This is the only further statement I will make to you. I have let you know that I am not speaking and will not speak on my marriage to Pete. Please respect this decision.”
In conclusion, Wicker’s unwavering support for Hegseth highlights the contentious nature of his nomination process. As the Senate moves forward with the confirmation process, the allegations against Hegseth will continue to be scrutinized.
