Pete Hegseth, nominated by Trump for Defense Secretary, faced allegations of sexual assault from 2017. His attorney claims a settlement was made to avoid career damage. Hegseth maintains the encounter was consensual and involves allegations of extortion. The incident came to light after a memo from an associate of the accuser, detailing claims of assault, was sent to Transition Team officials. The allegations have sparked controversy as Hegseth nears Senate confirmation, with Trump's team expressing continued support despite discussions of the allegations.