Podcast Summary: "Can Pete Hegseth's Nomination Survive?"
Consider This from NPR
Release Date: December 4, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of NPR's "Consider This," host Mary Louise Kelly delves into the contentious nomination of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense under President Elect Donald Trump. The discussion centers around the various allegations against Hegseth, his efforts to secure confirmation, and the political dynamics influencing his nomination's fate.

Background: Pete Hegseth's Nomination

Pete Hegseth, formerly a host on Fox and Friends Weekend, has been nominated by President Elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Defense in his upcoming administration. However, Hegseth's nomination faces significant scrutiny due to multiple allegations concerning his past behavior and professional conduct.

Allegations Against Pete Hegseth

Sexual Misconduct and Alcohol Abuse Claims

• David Falkenflik reports that a former Fox News colleague has accused Hegseth of inappropriate behavior, stating, "he got handsy repeatedly at incidents when he was inebriated and once even groping her bottom at a Manhattan bar" (04:40). This colleague requested anonymity to avoid retribution.

• Additional allegations include a 2017 incident in California, reported by The New Yorker, where Hegseth was accused of sexual assault. Hegseth has denied these claims, asserting that the encounter was consensual.

• David Falkenflik also mentions claims from NBC that ten current and former Fox colleagues allege Hegseth had a concerning level of alcohol consumption. Hegseth's attorney has refuted these allegations, with former Fox News co-host Will Kane publicly disputing the negative portrayal of Hegseth's drinking habits (05:00).

Financial Mismanagement

• GOP insiders reportedly pushed to remove Hegseth from his leadership role in a veterans' group back in 2016 due to allegations of financial mismanagement.

Hegseth’s Mother's Involvement

• Penelope Hegseth, Pete's mother, appeared on Fox and Friends to defend her son, urging senators to "disregard the media" and "judge people or understand him for who he is today" (01:16). She attributed past criticisms to "misinformation."

Responses and Defense

Hegseth’s Efforts to Secure Confirmation

• Pete Hegseth has been actively meeting with senators and conducting interviews to defend his nomination. He emphasizes his commitment to "tell the truth" and counteract media narratives (01:16).

• David Falkenflik notes that Hegseth's strategy includes engaging with media platforms supportive of Trump, such as former Fox colleague Megyn Kelly's podcast, to present his side of the story.

Support from Allies

• Despite the allegations, Hegseth retains support from key Republican figures. For instance, Senator Lindsey Graham acknowledges the seriousness of some allegations but underscores Hegseth's right to address them (03:30).

• Deirdre Walsh explains that while some Republican senators like Bill Hagerty and Joni Ernst dismiss the allegations as unsubstantiated, others within the party are more cautious, requesting thorough background checks and direct responses to concerns before a public hearing can be held (06:05).

Political Implications and Future Prospects

• Hegseth's nomination currently hangs in the balance as he must secure the majority support of Republican senators. He can afford to lose only up to three Republican votes, but over four Republicans have expressed reservations pending further information (06:05).

• Deirdre Walsh highlights that Hegseth’s main challenge lies in convincing these wavering senators and maintaining Trump's support. Reports suggest that Trump may consider alternative candidates like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis if support for Hegseth diminishes (08:11).

• David Falkenflik observes that while Hegseth is fighting to retain his nomination, the mounting allegations and divided Republican support make his confirmation increasingly uncertain.

Conclusion

Pete Hegseth's nomination as Secretary of Defense is marred by serious allegations of sexual misconduct, alcohol abuse, and financial mismanagement. While he actively seeks to defend his reputation and secure senator support, the growing list of concerns and demand for more transparency among Republican senators pose significant challenges to his confirmation. The outcome remains uncertain, hinging on Hegseth's ability to convincingly address these allegations and retain the necessary political backing.

Notable Quotes:

• Mary Louise Kelly (01:16): "Pete is Pete Hegseth, President Elect Trump's pick to lead the Defense Department in his second administration."

• Penelope Hegseth (01:16): "I want people to look at Pete, judge people or understand him for who he is today and to disregard the media."

• David Falkenflik (07:24): "He obviously has a chance to defend himself here, but some of this stuff is it's going to be difficult. You know, time will tell."

• Deirdre Walsh (06:05): "The challenge really for Hegseth is a math one. I mean, right now, he can only afford to lose three Republican votes, and there are more than four Republicans who say they want more information."

This summary was produced by analyzing the transcript provided for the NPR episode titled "Can Pete Hegseth's Nomination Survive?" from the podcast "Consider This." All quotes and attributions are based on the transcript content.