US President Donald Trump's nominee was nearly facing a derailment of his confirmation after he faced misconduct allegations.
His appointment was confirmed after Vice-President JD Vance case his tie-breaking vote in his favour.
Three Republican Senators, including ex-Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell, voted against him.
During Hegseth's confirmation hearing, he faced multiple questions about an allegation of sexual assault, which he has denied, as well as infidelity and drinking, reported BBC.
Pete Hegseth is a former combat veteran and one-time Fox News television host.
Pete Hegseth will be our next secretary of defense. This is a great day for America and our military. Congrats @PeteHegseth
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) January 25, 2025
🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Following his appointment, Donald Trump Jr. wrote on X, "Pete Hegseth will be our next secretary of defense. This is a great day for America and our military. Congrats @PeteHegseth."
Thank you for your confidence Mr. President.
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) January 25, 2025
Thank you for the tie-breaker Mr. Vice President.
Thank you Senators for 50 votes.
This is for the troops. For the warriors. For our country.
America First. Every day. We will never back down. 🇺🇸
Pete Hegseth thanked President Trump over the appointment.
He said: "Thank you for your confidence Mr. President. Thank you for the tie-breaker Mr. Vice President. Thank you Senators for 50 votes. This is for the troops. For the warriors. For our country. America First. Every day. We will never back down."