Trump’s Pentagon pick has denied the allegations, calling them part of a ‘smear campaign.’

None of the 13 Democrats on the Armed Services Committee appeared to believe Hegseth, an Army veteran and Fox News personality, was qualified to run one of the largest and most complex institutions in the world.

President Donald Trump has named an acting secretary of defense until his nominee, Pete Hegseth, gets confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Democrats said Hegseth’s lack of experience, his past comments about women and Black troops and allegations of excessive drinking, and sexual misconduct, make him unfit to serve. Republicans described him as "unconventional" but an “excellent choice.

Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in his opening remarks that he doesn't believe Pete Hegseth is qualified to lead the Pentagon. “We must acknowledge the concerning public reports against you,

Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed met with president-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Wednesday.

Pete Hegseth vowed to restore “warrior ethos ... much less being confirmed as the Secretary of Defense,” said Sen. Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island). Hegseth insisted that he reveres all service ...

called Hegseth’s nomination to lead the Defense Department “unconventional” but compared him to Trump, and said that may just be what makes him an “excellent choice.” Rhode Island Sen.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump ... saying that may just be what makes him an “excellent choice.” Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed, the committee’s top Democrat ...

Responding to concerns over Pete Hegseth's background check, a legal analyst asked why Hegseth's ex-wife was not interviewed.

Miss., chair of the Armed Services Committee, has signaled Hegseth is likely to be confirmed as defense secretary.