Attorney Timothy Parlatore has confirmed that Pete Hegseth, a military veteran and former television anchor, has received forms from the FBI to commence the background check process as Trump nominates him for the Pentagon role. This development comes as some legislators demand more scrutiny over Hegseth’s nomination amidst various allegations.
Hegseth recently completed his first week of meetings on Capitol Hill, aiming to secure backing from influential senators responsible for confirming his appointment. Although some legislators remain hesitant due to accusations involving drinking and sexual misconduct, which Hegseth has firmly denied, the president-elect’s transition team is advancing the process through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Justice Department to facilitate these checks.
Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker expressed his uncertainty about supporting Hegseth but is open to being persuaded. Parlatore mentioned the readiness to share a detailed report with Wicker’s committee, addressing the misconduct allegations during Hegseth’s tenure at a veterans’ organization. The existence of this report was highlighted by a New Yorker article.
The allegations against Hegseth include a critical sexual assault claim from 2017, which he has dismissed. A settlement with a confidentiality agreement was reached with the accuser. Attorney Parlatore explained that the settlement was agreed upon during the height of the #MeToo movement to avoid jeopardizing Hegseth’s position at Fox News. He further asserted that the confidentiality clause is now void, allowing the accuser to discuss the issue, albeit with the risk of defamation litigation.
Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the potential of a lawsuit against the accuser as unethical. He urged transparency, proposing that the accuser be allowed to fully disclose her account to the Armed Services Committee without intimidation from legal threats.
The FBI background investigation of Pete Hegseth signifies a crucial stage in the confirmation process. As scrutiny intensifies around his nomination, the outcome of the background check may play a pivotal role in addressing the allegations and influencing Senate decisions.
Source: CNN
