Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s nominee for US defense secretary, was confirmed by the Senate in a 50-50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie. Hegseth’s confirmation faced hurdles due to allegations of sexual assault, excessive drinking, and infidelity, all of which he denied. Critics, including Republican senators Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins, questioned his qualifications and judgment. Despite opposition, Trump and many Republicans backed him. Hegseth, a military veteran and former Fox News host, now leads the Pentagon with a $849 billion budget and three million personnel.