Senator Tammy Duckworth Expresses Concerns Over Trump’s Defense Secretary Nominee

In a recent appearance on «Face the Nation,» Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois shared her perspectives on various political issues, focusing on the potential nominations in the upcoming Trump administration. Duckworth, who serves on the Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, openly discussed her apprehensions, particularly regarding the controversial nominee for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth. This discussion occurred on November 24, 2024, during her interview with Margaret Brennan.

Duckworth expressed grave concern over the possibility that her colleagues in the Senate would approve any nominee President Trump presents, without thorough examination. She acknowledged the recent decision by former Congressman Matt Gaetz to withdraw from the race for Attorney General, a decision reportedly influenced by opposition from at least 15 Republican senators. Despite this, Duckworth noted her nervousness about the Senate’s willingness to «roll over» for Trump’s nominees.

The conversation then shifted to the topic of women in combat roles, an area of personal experience for Duckworth, who sustained injuries in 2004 while piloting a Black Hawk helicopter. Brennan highlighted statements made by Pete Hegseth, Trump’s defense secretary candidate, who expressed opposition to women serving in combat roles. Duckworth firmly countered his views, asserting the essential contributions of over 220,000 women in active service to the military’s effectiveness.

«Our military could not go to war without the women who wear this uniform,» Duckworth stated, emphasizing that female service members meet the same rigorous standards as their male counterparts. She criticized Hegseth’s comments as indicative of his lack of understanding and suitability for the role, given his limited military command experience and broader qualifications.

The topic of character in leadership also arose, particularly concerning allegations against Hegseth. Senator Duckworth expressed concern over Hegseth’s past, particularly issues related to sexual assault allegations. She criticized Trump’s choice, noting it undermines the military’s decade-long efforts to address sexual violence.

Additionally, Duckworth commented on military promotions, specifically the case of Lieutenant General Christopher Donahue, whose advancement has been reportedly stalled by Republican Senator Markwayne Mullen. Duckworth argued for a transparent, committee-wide review rather than a decision based on a single senator’s stance.

The interview also touched upon the complex geopolitics surrounding U.S. aid to Israel and recent military actions in Gaza. While Duckworth voted against resolutions that would halt specific arms shipments to Israel, she expressed understanding of her colleague Senator Van Hollen‘s perspective, emphasizing shared concerns over humanitarian issues.

Finally, when asked about bipartisan cooperation in the future Trump administration, Duckworth highlighted her willingness to evaluate nominees case-by-case, focusing on their qualifications and ability to prioritize American interests over political loyalty to Trump.