Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth addressed reporters on Capitol Hill Thursday, asserting his commitment to winning over senators amid a contentious confirmation process. Speaking after a series of private meetings with lawmakers, Hegseth emphasized his dedication to restoring the Pentagon’s core mission of deterring and defeating enemies, while discarding what he described as “social justice” and “politically correct” policies within the Department of Defense.
“It was a great day on the Hill,” Hegseth told reporters. “We’re earning every vote, and we have a great deal of respect for this process. The conversations have been robust, candid, and at times challenging, but we welcome those questions.”
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He noted that senators have probed not only policy matters, but also “personality and everything else,” adding, “We’re fighting all the way through the tape.”
Hegseth thanked President-elect Donald Trump for entrusting him with a nomination that he said would allow the Pentagon to refocus on “lethality, meritocracy, readiness, warfighting, and accountability.”
Stressing that the Defense Department must be centered on combat readiness rather than social issues, he vowed to champion a military culture that prioritizes effectiveness on the battlefield.
In response to questions about a rumored whistleblower report that might challenge his suitability, Hegseth dismissed it as “an email from a disgruntled employee,” declining to confirm whether he supports its public release. Instead, he stressed that he would address all legitimate concerns through the official Senate confirmation process rather than in the media spotlight.
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“I’ll answer every senator’s question,” he said. “They deserve answers. But I do not answer to the press or to the camera. I answer to President Trump, who received a mandate for change, and to the senators who represent the American people.”
Hegseth also spoke candidly about personal growth. “Because of my faith in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and my incredible wife, I’m a different man than I was years ago,” he said. “That’s a redemption story I think many Americans appreciate, including fellow veterans.”
While critics have questioned his past statements and conduct, Hegseth projected confidence, reiterating that the confirmation process continues, and he remains committed to securing Senate support.
“As long as Donald Trump wants me in this fight, I’m going to be right here fighting to bring our Pentagon back to what it needs to be,” he concluded.
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