U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, along with fellow Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has issued a statement regarding allegations against Pete Hegseth, nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense. The statement addresses a sworn affidavit that accuses Hegseth of erratic and aggressive behavior toward his second wife over several years.
"In a sworn statement under the penalty of perjury, a new report shows U.S. Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth was ‘erratic and aggressive’ toward his second wife over many years, to the point that she feared for her safety," the statement reads. "The report also details repeated instances of his drinking alcohol in excess, including the need to be dragged out of a strip club while in uniform."
The senators express concern about what they describe as a "disturbing pattern of behavior" documented through various reports and question the thoroughness of Hegseth's FBI background check during what they term a rushed confirmation process.
They further criticize Hegseth for refusing to meet with most Democratic members of the committee. "We request that Mr. Hegseth meet privately with every interested lawmaker on the committee before the Senate votes on his nomination so that we can have frank discussions about the new information that has come to light," they state.
The senators emphasize their belief that it would be irresponsible for the Senate to proceed with confirming Hegseth without these meetings taking place.