House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) said Saturday he is “optimistic” about the path forward for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's controversial pick to lead the Pentagon.
“I'm optimistic about that. I've talked privately with a number of senators on the Hill over the last few days, and it looks like the momentum is moving in the right direction,” Johnson said. said in an interview “We've all made mistakes in life, but I believe in redemption,” he added on “Fox & Friends Weekend.”
“What Pete brings is a love of the military, a great academic background, and great experience. I think he's the right person for this job,” Hegseth told former Fox News colleagues. “And he will disrupt the status quo. That's why this nomination is so important.”
Johnson's praise comes a day after President Trump doubled down on Hegseth's nomination amid questions about whether allegations of sexual misconduct and excessive drinking would affect his chances of Senate confirmation. It was done. Although the chair is a strong ally of the president-elect, he does not have a vote on the issue.
“Pete Hegseth is in great spirits. His support is strong and deep, much stronger than the fake news would have you believe,” Trump said. Posted on Truth Socialcalled the former “Fox & Friends” host a “great student” with a “military state of mind.”
While his approval ratings have increased in recent days, Mr Hegseth still faces an uphill battle. Sources suggested to The Hill earlier this week that his chances could be thwarted by a group of Senate Republicans who would likely “categorically refuse.”
These reservations have also been conveyed directly to the Trump transition team, which is reportedly considering other options, including one former major rival. This includes Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (Republican).
Hegseth vowed to continue fighting for the position despite intense scrutiny. In an online message earlier this week, he claimed he was the target of a smear campaign from Democrats.
“I'm doing this for the combatants, not the warmongers,” he wrote. Social platform. “The left is afraid of disruptors and changemakers. They're afraid of @realDonaldTrump and me.”
“That's why they're filling it with fake anonymous sources and BS articles. They don't want the truth. Our warriors never back down, and neither do I,” Hegseth said. added.
The Army veteran's attorney also threatened to file an extortion lawsuit against his client's sexual assault accuser unless Hegseth is confirmed as defense secretary.
