Democratic Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) defended his decision to meet with President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, despite controversy surrounding the candidate. The meeting, set to take place on Thursday, marks the first time a Democratic senator has met with Hegseth. Fetterman emphasized the importance of engaging with Trump’s nominees, particularly those poised to play key roles in the administration.
“I think it’s an opportunity to have a conversation, and I’m not sure why it would be controversial to anybody,” Fetterman told CNN. “If he’s the individual who could potentially be the next Secretary of Defense, I think it’s my responsibility to have a dialogue. I represent all Pennsylvanians, not just Democrats or my voters.”
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Fetterman revealed that the meeting would be off the record, focusing on various military issues, including topics where he expects to find common ground, such as U.S. relations with China and Israel. However, he also noted potential disagreements on policies like the war in Ukraine.
“I’ve never heard of [Hegseth] before he was nominated,” Fetterman admitted, “so this is an opportunity to have a discussion and see where we align or differ on military matters.”
When asked about the allegations against Hegseth—including claims of sexual misconduct and excessive drinking, which Hegseth has denied—Fetterman acknowledged the controversy but deferred judgment. “There hasn’t been any formal criminal charges, but these issues will likely come up in our conversation. Ultimately, the FBI vetting process and Senate hearings will address them,” he said.
Fetterman also commented on whether accusers should come forward publicly, stating, “I believe that’s up to them. These matters will likely be part of the broader vetting process.”
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Some critics have raised questions about Hegseth’s qualifications for leading the Department of Defense, given his lack of experience running an organization of its scale. Fetterman addressed these concerns candidly: “He wouldn’t have been in my top 10 choices, but when the other side wins, they pick the people. It’s my responsibility as a senator to have a conversation with someone who could hold such an important role.”
Despite the controversies, Fetterman emphasized the importance of establishing a working relationship with key figures in the upcoming administration. “If these people are going to hold these offices, it’s on us to engage with them and find areas where we can work together for the best possible outcomes.”
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Fetterman’s meeting with Hegseth follows similar discussions with other Trump nominees. He recently met with Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), nominated to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and has pledged to support her confirmation. He also expressed support for Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State.
“Donald Trump carried Pennsylvania, and he’s going to be the next president,” Fetterman noted. “It’s my job to engage with people who are going to play critical roles in his administration, regardless of party affiliation.”
Addressing criticism from some on the left, who argue that such meetings provide Trump’s administration with a veneer of bipartisanship, Fetterman dismissed the concerns. “Some people can vent or rant on Twitter, but I’m here to have conversations. I think I’m just doing my job,” he said.
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Fetterman reiterated his pragmatic approach: “Democrats or others can freak out over anyone who is nominated, but I’m not that guy. I’m open to having conversations with individuals who will hold important positions, and I’ll do what’s best for Pennsylvania and the nation.”
As the confirmation process unfolds, Fetterman’s efforts to engage with Trump’s nominees highlight his commitment to fostering dialogue and finding common ground, even amid political divisions.
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