Additional Coverage:
- ‘Desperate attempt’: Senators receive affidavit with allegations about Hegseth’s previous marriage (foxnews.com)
Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth is facing scrutiny over allegations of alcohol abuse and causing his ex-wife, Samantha, to fear for her safety. These allegations come from an affidavit filed by Hegseth’s former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth. The Senate Armed Services Committee is currently reviewing the document.
Hegseth vehemently denies the claims. His lawyer, Tim Parlatore, stated that Samantha Hegseth never alleged abuse and even signed court documents confirming this. Parlatore dismisses Danielle Hegseth’s accusations as those of a disgruntled ex-family member with a political vendetta.
While the affidavit details an incident where Samantha reportedly hid from Hegseth in a closet, Danielle Hegseth admits she never personally witnessed any physical or sexual abuse. The affidavit also includes anecdotes about Hegseth’s alleged excessive drinking.
Ranking member of the Armed Services Committee, Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), expressed concern over Hegseth’s background check, stating the affidavit confirms his fears regarding alleged sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and public misconduct. He believes this behavior disqualifies Hegseth from leading the military.
Samantha Hegseth has denied any physical abuse occurred during her marriage. This denial has been echoed by supporters of Hegseth, who criticize the media’s coverage.
Democratic senators on the committee, including Sens. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), expressed serious concerns about Hegseth’s fitness for office in light of the affidavit. They believe the allegations, if true, disqualify him from the position.
However, Republican Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT), a committee member, dismissed the affidavit as a politically motivated smear campaign.