Secretary of Defense

Former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell voted against Pete Hegseth's confirmation as Secretary of Defense, citing concerns over qualifications and global threats, leading to a tie-breaking vote by Vice President JD Vance.

Pete Hegseth was confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Defense in a dramatic 51-50 Senate vote, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie. Despite controversies and opposition from some Republicans and all Democrats, Hegseth's military background and Trump's influence secured his position.