Pete Hegseth returns to Capitol Hill to build support as Trump's defense secretary

Washington — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's choice to lead the Defense Department, returned to Capitol Hill on Monday as he tries to solidify support among Senate Republicans as he faces allegations of sexual misconduct, financial mismanagement of veterans' charities and excessive drinking. 

Hegseth met with at least two Republican senators on Monday who had expressed concern about the allegations. In statements after the meetings, both Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina appeared more comfortable with Trump's pick. 

"As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources," Ernst said.