Washington, Jan 25 (PTI) - The US Senate has confirmed Pete Hegseth as the Defence Secretary after a contentious nomination process. Vice President J D Vance cast a rare tiebreaker vote in the evenly split Senate, which has 100 members, securing President Donald Trump's nominee.
Hegseth's confirmation comes amid serious allegations against him, including sexual assault and alcohol abuse, all of which he denies. The ruling Republican Party has 53 members, and all 47 Democrats voted against Hegseth, along with three Republican senators: Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Mitch McConnell.
Despite public criticism, Trump's administration supported Hegseth, viewing his appointment as a significant victory. Hegseth's comments on women in combat roles and allegations of personal misconduct have sparked strong opposition from Democrats, who argue he is unfit to lead the Department of Defence.
Congressman Mike Rogers, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, congratulated Hegseth, expressing eagerness to work with him to strengthen the military. However, Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin criticized Hegseth's views and qualifications, stating he cannot be trusted to address national threats.
In related news, President Trump declared a national emergency on the border with Mexico, citing threats to America's sovereignty. Active-duty military were deployed to San Diego and El Paso, Texas, despite a significant drop in illegal border crossings, which fell over 80% in December compared to the previous year.