President-elect Donald Trump’s recent nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense has been overshadowed by revelations of a 2017 sexual assault allegation and subsequent financial settlement. Hegseth, a former Army National Guard officer and Fox News host, is accused of assaulting a woman in Monterey, California, following a speaking engagement. While no charges were filed, Hegseth’s attorney, Timothy Parlatore, confirmed that a settlement was reached to prevent a potential lawsuit, asserting that the encounter was consensual and that Hegseth was the victim of blackmail.
The incident reportedly occurred in October 2017 after Hegseth addressed the California Federation of Republican Women. The accuser, a staffer at a conservative organization, alleged that Hegseth, then 44, raped her in his hotel room after a night of drinking. She filed a police report days later, but the local district attorney declined to press charges. In 2020, she threatened legal action, leading to a settlement and a non-disclosure agreement.
Parlatore contends that the accuser was sober and pursued Hegseth, who was highly intoxicated, and that she took advantage of him. He stated, “Basically, he was totally innocent. He did nothing wrong here.” Despite the allegations, Trump maintains confidence in his nominee, emphasizing Hegseth’s qualifications and denial of any wrongdoing.
Hegseth’s nomination has raised concerns due to his lack of experience managing large organizations and his controversial views on military policies, including opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His nomination follows other contentious picks by Trump, such as Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, who resigned amid ethics and misconduct allegations.
The unfolding situation highlights the complexities of political appointments and the scrutiny nominees face regarding their past actions and beliefs. As Hegseth’s confirmation process advances, the Senate will need to weigh these allegations and his qualifications against the responsibilities of leading the Department of Defense.
