In a notable development within the hallowed halls of the Senate, a prominent member of the Armed Services Committee has publicly rallied in support of President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. This senator, Roger Wicker of Mississippi, vehemently defends Hegseth against what he terms “anonymous sources with ulterior motives” that cast shadows on the nominee’s character.
Chairman Wicker’s remarks, delivered on Wednesday, struck a chord of discontent regarding certain reports stemming from a confidential briefing on the FBI background investigation concerning Hegseth. He labeled these reports as “starkly and factually inaccurate,” a sentiment underscoring his frustration over the public discourse surrounding this sensitive vetting process.
“It is troubling that a sensitive, longstanding process used by committee leadership to evaluate presidential personnel is being litigated publicly by anonymous sources harboring questionable agendas,” Wicker stated. He emphasized that he had received not one but three comprehensive briefings regarding the FBI’s background check, reinforcing his position of support for Hegseth.
Wicker’s comments were in direct response to a CNN report that referenced sources familiar with the investigation, suggesting that Hegseth’s former wife, Samantha Hegseth, had conveyed to the FBI her concerns about Hegseth’s alleged alcohol consumption. The report cited a source claiming Samantha stated, “He drinks more often than he doesn’t.”
HEGSETH LAWYER SLAMS ‘FLAWED AND QUESTIONABLE AFFIDAVIT’ FROM EX-SISTER-IN-LAW
According to a source acquainted with the FBI’s investigations, it was confirmed that Samantha provided a prepared statement wherein she alleged that Pete Hegseth has experienced, and continues to grapple with, issues related to alcohol abuse. This statement was communicated to Senators Wicker and Reed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Despite the swirling controversy, Wicker remains steadfast in his endorsement of Hegseth. “Following this thorough review, I am unwavering in my conviction that Mr. Hegseth is primed to assume the mantle of Secretary of Defense, and the accusations tarnishing his character do not withstand scrutiny,” Wicker asserted.
Furthermore, Wicker highlighted that Hegseth possesses the confidence of Trump and the robust support of Senate Republicans, urging for a swift confirmation during this critical juncture for national security.
A vote regarding the nomination for Defense Secretary is anticipated to occur this weekend, contingent upon whether Senate Republicans and Democrats can reach an agreement to expedite the process.
Throughout the confirmation proceedings, Hegseth has been embroiled in controversy. Recently, Fox News obtained an affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth, making allegations of alcohol abuse and indicating that Samantha sometimes feared for her safety. It’s noteworthy that Danielle was married to Pete Hegseth’s brother but is not related to Samantha, Hegseth’s second wife.
However, Danielle Hegseth stated that she had never personally witnessed any form of abuse—either physical or sexual—by Pete against Samantha. Likewise, Samantha Hegseth has publicly refuted allegations of physical abuse in a statement to NBC News.
“There was no physical abuse in my marriage. This is the only further statement I will make to you. I have chosen not to speak on my marriage to Pete, and I ask you to respect this decision,” she reportedly asserted.
Contributions to this report have been made by Fox News’ Tyler Olson, Kelly Phares, and Daniel Scully.
