Senate Republicans Clash with Democrats Over Pete Hegseth’s Defense Nomination

Senate Republicans are pushing back against Democratic efforts to delay the confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President Trump‘s nominee for a key Department of Defense position. The hearing, scheduled for January 14, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing political battle over the transition of power.

Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., accused Democrats of attempting to stall Hegseth’s confirmation, warning that such delays could jeopardize national security. In a letter to Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Banks urged the committee to proceed with the hearing as planned. “As you are aware, Senators who are going to oppose the Hegseth nomination no matter what are seeking to delay and deny President Trump his nominee confirmed quickly,” Banks wrote.

Democrats, led by Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., have raised concerns about Hegseth’s qualifications and past management of a veterans’ nonprofit. Blumenthal has called for additional documentation, including financial records, to assess Hegseth’s suitability for the role. “I do not see how this committee can, in good conscience, consider Mr. Hegseth’s nomination without a full review of his conduct while leading these organizations,” Blumenthal stated.

Blumenthal also claimed that Hegseth has been unwilling to meet with Democratic senators ahead of the hearing. However, a source familiar with the matter told Fox News Digital that Hegseth reached out to Democrats in early December, but only Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., agreed to meet. The source added that other Democrats waited until days before the hearing to respond, leaving little time for preparation.

Banks dismissed Blumenthal’s concerns as politically motivated, noting that veterans who have worked with Hegseth have publicly supported his nomination. “Senator Blumenthal’s letter purposely omits the fact that veterans who have worked with Mr. Hegseth professionally are on the record supporting his nomination,” Banks wrote.

An aide from the Armed Services Committee confirmed that the January 14 hearing is still on track. The outcome of the hearing could have significant implications for the Department of Defense as the transition of power approaches.