Former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell surprised many by voting against President Donald Trump's nominee for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, highlighting a rare break with Trump and signaling McConnell's willingness to challenge the president on national security matters.
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.
The Senate is in a late-night session voting on Pete Hegseth, President Trump's nominee for defense secretary, amidst concerns over his qualifications and allegations of misconduct. The vote highlights deep divisions within the Senate and the broader implications for the Department of Defense.
President-elect Donald Trump is urging Republican senators to use recess appointments for his nominees, bypassing traditional Senate confirmation procedures to quickly fill positions within his administration. This strategy comes in response to previous term delays. Recess appointments allow presidents to install nominees while the Senate isn't in session, avoiding hearings and votes. GOP leaders show support, but recess appointments have faced legal scrutiny, especially after a 2014 Supreme Court ruling. Trump's move could alter the balance of power between branches and affect Senate dynamics, particularly with resistance expected for controversial nominees.