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Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) opened the meeting by remembering the victims of the California fires and thanking the committee’s ranking Democrat, Sen. Jack Reed. and introduced the new committee members. Committee members sworn in in the Senate this month.
Wicker warned the audience not to cheer or express support for candidates in the future, saying those who did so would be removed from the hearing room. In his opening remarks, Mr. Wicker emphasized Mr. Hegseth’s qualifications and his urgency on the world stage, while acknowledging that Mr. Trump’s nomination for secretary of defense is under intense scrutiny.
Wicker said the United States faces the “most dangerous” security environment since World War II, adding, “If confirmed, Pete Hegseth will step into the role at a critical moment. Probably.”
Wicker added that “America has entered a period of greatest danger” and said the department needs “vigorous” leadership.
Wicker asked the committee questions, saying senators should ask whether the Pentagon’s civilian leadership has proven up to the challenge in the past. He said most of the department’s flagship programs, along with other issues, are running years behind schedule, which is simply not the case.
“Today’s Department of Defense is no longer prepared for great power competition,” Wicker said.
“Certainly, this nomination is unconventional. The candidate is unconventional,” Wicker said, comparing the general differences between Hegseth and the president-elect. “That may be what makes Mr. Hegseth such a great choice.”
“In short, I am confident that Mr. Hegseth will get the job done with the support of a team of experienced government officials,” Wicker continued.
Wicker alluded to the controversy surrounding Hegseth’s nomination, saying senators should not underestimate the value of Hegseth’s ability to communicate with the military members he served with.
Wicker noted that many of the accusations came from anonymous sources, but said, “Mr. Hegseth admitted that he fell short, as we all do from time to time.” .
The Chairperson highlighted that those who served with Hegseth are testifying to his character, reading a letter from a person touting his leadership and combat experience.
