As confirmation hearings commence for President Trump's Cabinet nominees, Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth faces serious scrutiny over his qualifications, past behaviors, and allegations of misconduct. While Hegseth has vocal support from some Republicans and Trump himself, many Democrats express deep concerns about his suitability for overseeing an $800 billion Defense Department amid ongoing global crises. The hearings are conducted in a Republican-controlled Senate where defections could jeopardize confirmations. Hegseth's past statements on women in combat and sexual assault allegations complicate his path forward.