Pfluger Applauds Pete Hegseth’s Confirmation as Secretary of Defense

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the new U.S. Secretary of Defense on Friday, with Vice President JD Vance casting a tie-breaking vote to finalize the 51-50 outcome.  

Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, faced a contentious confirmation process marked by allegations of sexual assault, excessive drinking, and financial mismanagement—claims he has consistently denied.

Notably, Republican Senators Mitch McConnell, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski joined all Democrats in opposing his nomination, citing concerns over his qualifications and past conduct.  

“I’m proud to see the Senate swiftly confirm Pete Hegseth as our next Secretary of Defense," Congressman August Pfluger stated. "He is a tremendous leader who will return merit and lethality to our military as well as help President Trump usher in a new era of peace through strength. As I said in my letter with my colleagues I am ‘confident he will transform President Trump's vision into reality, safeguarding America's national security interests with courage, intellect, and unwavering commitment.’ As our adversaries continue to advance their destabilization efforts globally, I look forward to working with Pete to restore our military effectiveness, bolster our national security, and make America respected again.”

Background: Earlier this month, Congressman Pfluger penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner making the case for Pete to be the next Secretary of Defense. You can read the op-ed here.

Despite the controversies, Hegseth’s supporters, including President Donald Trump, spoke about his military experience and commitment to strengthening the armed forces. In his new role, Hegseth has pledged to prioritize military readiness and address what he describes as “wokeness” within the Department of Defense.  

This confirmation marks only the second time in U.S. history that a vice president has had to break a tie for a cabinet appointment.