Republicans Urge Americans to Let Go of Pete Hegseth's Past Drinking, Womanizing During Nomination Hearing: 'People Can Change'

Two Republicans defending Pete Hegseth's nomination as Secretary of Defense urged senators to let go of past indiscretions including heavy drinking and womanizing.

During his supporting statement, Norm Coleman, a former U.S. Senator from Minnesota, said Hegseth has "struggled and overcome great personal challenges. Please don't focus on the cynical notion that people can change," he said.

Roger Wicker, the chairman of the committee, also supported Hegseth's nomination while delivering his opening remarks.

"Regarding his personal conduct, Mr. Hegseth has admitted to falling short, as we all do from time to time. It is noteworthy that the vast majority of the accusations leveled at Mr. Hegseth have come from anonymous sources. Contrast these anonymous accusations with the many public letters of support and commendation," Wicker said.

Hegseth has been accused of sexual assault, allegations he has denied. He also faces other allegations of alcohol abuse and mismanagement of nonprofits dedicated to veterans.

In one instance he reportedly chanted "kill all Muslims" in front of a veterans group before he was removed.

There have also been lingering questions over his views on gays and women in the military.

Hegseth also previously called for the restoration of the names of U.S. military bases that honored Confederate generals.

He also has no comparable management experience.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, a member of the Armed Services Committee, previously described Hegseth as "a guy with a track record of being so drunk at work events that he needed to be carried out on multiple occasions."

"Can we really count on calling Hegseth at 2AM to make life and death national security decisions? Nope," she said on X.

Hegseth can only afford three Republican rejections and still be confirmed, should every Democrat and independent vote against him but he has maintained Trump's support.

Thirteen of Trump's cabinet nominees are being questioned before 11 Senate committees.