Pete Hegseth, President Trump’s nominee for defense secretary, took a significant step forward in his confirmation process after passing a crucial Senate test on Thursday, bringing him closer to securing approval in a major victory for one of the President’s most controversial cabinet selections.
In a close 51-49 decision, the Senate voted to invoke cloture, effectively ending a filibuster against Hegseth’s nomination. This means the former Fox News personality is now on track to be confirmed in the coming days.
Every Democrat who voted on the cloture motion opposed Hegseth, 44, including Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), who had previously been undecided on whether he would support the nomination.
Two Republican Senators—Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska)—joined the Democrats in voting against moving forward with the nomination.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who had been considered a potential Republican “no” vote, threw his support behind advancing Hegseth’s candidacy.
“I remain concerned about the message that confirming Mr. Hegseth sends to women currently serving and those aspiring to join,” Murkowski said in a statement prior to her vote.
“While I appreciate his courageous military service and his ongoing commitment to our servicemembers and their families, I am concerned that he does not have the experience and perspective necessary to succeed in the job,” Collins explained after her vote.
A final confirmation vote is anticipated to take place by Shabbos.
{Matzav.com}