There are too many Republican traitors in Congress. They constantly threaten to upend Trump’s agenda.
And this RINO just spat in the face of Donald Trump with one disgusting move.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski Breaks Party Lines to Oppose Trump’s Defense Nominee Pete Hegseth
Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski announced Thursday her decision to oppose Pete Hegseth’s confirmation as Secretary of Defense. Her announcement makes her the first Republican to publicly reject one of President Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees, marking a significant development ahead of a key procedural vote to advance Hegseth’s nomination.
Hegseth’s candidacy has been mired in controversy, with allegations of misconduct ranging from heavy drinking to aggressive behavior toward women—claims he has largely denied. Despite the uproar, Trump has stood firmly behind his nominee, and Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) has dismissed the accusations as baseless.
“I am ironclad in my assessment that the nominee, Mr. Hegseth, is prepared to be the next secretary of defense,” Wicker stated ahead of Thursday’s test vote. “The Senate needs to confirm this nominee as fast as possible.”
National security nominees are traditionally among the first confirmed under a new president, ensuring stability for U.S. defense operations. The Senate has already unanimously confirmed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.
However, Hegseth’s nomination stands out due to a string of allegations. Among them is an accusation of s*xual assault at a Republican conference in California, which Hegseth insists was consensual, and reports of excessive drinking while leading a veterans’ organization.
Additionally, he has faced criticism for past remarks opposing women in combat roles—a stance he moderated during the confirmation process.
Adding to the controversy, an affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law surfaced this week, alleging he was abusive toward his second wife to the point of endangering her safety. Hegseth has denied the claim, noting that neither party raised allegations of domestic abuse during divorce proceedings.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) criticized Hegseth as unfit for the role, citing his personal behavior and lack of relevant experience.
“One of the kindest words that might be used to describe Mr. Hegseth is erratic, and that’s a term you don’t want at DOD,” Schumer stated. “He has a clear problem of judgment.”
Hegseth transitioned from military service to a media career as a Fox News host. Trump selected him to lead the Pentagon, a role overseeing 2.1 million service members, approximately 780,000 civilian employees, and an $850 billion budget. In response to concerns, Hegseth has pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed.
Despite his assurances, skepticism remains among senators who question both his qualifications and the allegations that could jeopardize his credibility as a leader.
The procedural vote on Thursday requires a simple majority of 50 senators to move Hegseth’s nomination forward.
With Republicans holding 53 seats, most are expected to back the nominee, including Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran and survivor of s*xual assault. If the vote is tied, Vice President JD Vance could step in to cast the deciding vote.
During his heated confirmation hearing, Hegseth dismissed the allegations as “smears” and emphasized his military credentials, vowing to instill a “warrior culture” in the Department of Defense if confirmed.
As the Senate prepares to vote, the outcome will serve as a key test of party loyalty and the balance between experience, character, and leadership in one of the nation’s most critical roles.
But so far, Lisa Murkowski has failed the test when it comes to being loyal to her party.
Stay tuned to The Federalist Wire.
