Pete Hegseth's FBI background check omits crucial testimonies from women

In 2017, after attending a Republican women's convention in California, allegations of sexual assault emerged against Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and military veteran. The claims involved a woman who reported to police that Hegseth had assaulted her following a night of drinking at an afterparty. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, no charges were filed, and the local district attorney noted that there was insufficient evidence to proceed. Hegseth maintained that the encounter was consensual and later reached a settlement with the accuser in 2023, which he described as a measure taken to protect his career rather than an admission of guilt. His legal representative suggested that Hegseth was a victim of blackmail concerning these claims. The FBI was tasked with conducting a thorough background check on Hegseth as part of the vetting process for his nomination as defense secretary under President-elect Donald Trump. However, sources reported that the FBI's investigation did not include interviews with significant individuals from Hegseth's past, particularly his ex-wives and the woman who accused him of sexual assault. Despite the standard procedure typically requiring such interviews, the extent of the FBI's outreach was ambiguous, and it is unclear whether the agency attempted to speak to the individuals identified. As Senate Democrats prepared for Hegseth's confirmation hearing, they raised concerns about the completeness of the FBI's background check, suggesting it lacked essential information that could impact their decision. Some senators voiced strong criticism of Hegseth's qualifications and character, questioning his ability to lead the Defense Department, which oversees a large military budget and has significant global responsibilities. Democrats highlighted concerns over Hegseth's alleged excessive drinking, financial mismanagement in veteran organizations, and the implications of the past allegations against him. The confirmation hearing, which took place in January 2025, was a platform for senators to question Hegseth on these issues, particularly his past behavior, and how he would handle key military and diplomatic decisions if confirmed. The outcomes of these hearings and the surrounding controversies were crucial, considering the Republican majority in the Senate meant Hegseth could only afford to lose a few votes for successful confirmation. As Democrats aimed to present a unified stance against Hegseth, they prepared to scrutinize every facet of his personal and professional history in light of the serious allegations that previously surrounded him.