'Lack Of Judgment': GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski Will Oppose Trump Nominee Pete Hegseth

Republicans say they are confident that Hegseth, who has been accused of alcohol and domestic abuse, will ultimately be confirmed to lead the Pentagon.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) announced she will oppose Pete Hegseth, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department.

The Alaska Republican cited Hegseth’s lack of qualifications, his vocal opposition to women serving in combat roles, accusations of financial mismanagement at veterans organizations he led and his alleged history of alcoholism and domestic abuse as reasons she could not support his confirmation.

“While the allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking do nothing to quiet my concerns, the past behaviors Mr. Hegseth has admitted to, including infidelity on multiple occasions, demonstrate a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces,” Murkowski said in a statement on Thursday.

“Above all, I believe that character is the defining trait required of the Secretary of Defense, and must be prioritized without compromise,” she added. “The leader of the Department of Defense must demonstrate and model the standards of behavior and character we expect of all servicemembers, and Mr. Hegseth’s nomination to the role poses significant concerns that I cannot overlook.”

Republicans say they are confident that Hegseth will ultimately be confirmed this week. They can afford to lose no more than three Republican votes, since every Democrat is expected to oppose his nomination. Other GOP senators who are viewed as possible swing votes on Hegseth include Susan Collins of Maine and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.