Pete Hegseth Praises 'Great' Meeting with Sen. Joni Ernst, Says Her Support 'Matters Greatly'
Defense Secretary Nominee Pete Hegseth Highlights 'Great' Meeting with Sen. Joni Ernst, Praises Her Support
On Monday evening, Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth spoke positively about his second meeting with Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA), emphasizing its importance as he seeks Senate confirmation for the role.
“It was a great meeting,” Hegseth said during an appearance on Hannity on Fox News. He commended Ernst for her leadership on key Department of Defense issues, describing her as “front and center” on matters critical to national security.
Earlier in the day, Ernst, who had initially expressed reservations about Hegseth due to a media smear campaign, released a favorable statement following their meeting:
"I appreciate Pete Hegseth’s responsiveness and respect for the process. Following our encouraging conversations, Pete committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who will uphold the roles and value of our servicemen and women — based on quality and standards, not quotas. He will also prioritize strengthening my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks. As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources."
Hegseth expressed gratitude for Ernst’s backing, saying, “The fact that she’s willing to support me through this process means a lot.”
Addressing misconceptions, Hegseth reaffirmed his support for women in the military, an issue Ernst has championed as a retired National Guard colonel. “Some of our greatest warriors are women who serve,” he said. “They defend our country and our flag every day around the globe. If I’m confirmed, I look forward to being a Secretary of Defense for all our warriors, men and women alike.”
Hegseth also reflected on his long-standing relationship with Ernst, dating back over a decade when she was a state senator and he was with Concerned Veterans for America. “We supported her in her effort to become the first female combat veteran in the Senate,” he recalled.
Looking ahead, Hegseth revealed plans to meet with moderate senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to continue building support for his nomination.
Hegseth criticized efforts by the left to derail his confirmation, describing them as attempts to stage a “media show trial.” However, he praised the confirmation process, affirming his commitment to transparency. “I’m walking into the offices of every senator with an open book, ready to answer their questions, because they deserve answers,” he said.
Hegseth concluded by emphasizing his dedication to America’s service members: “This is about earning the votes of the Senate to serve our war fighters. They need someone in that top spot who has their backs and understands their sacrifices.”
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Pete Hegseth Speaks to Reporters