In a live interview on Fox News, Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden made a big slip-up that has people talking. While discussing Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth’s Senate hearing, Van Orden said, “We are closer to World War 2 than we have been in my entire lifetime.” Wait, what? That’s a pretty wild statement, especially when you think about it for a second. World War 2 ended in 1945, and most people would argue that we’re not exactly on the brink of another one!
Van Orden was sharing his thoughts on Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, and his potential to lead the Pentagon. He expressed his support for Hegseth, believing the nominee could bring peace and strength to the world. “We’re gonna protect our citizens and our allies for the first time in the last four years,” Van Orden said, pushing the idea that Hegseth would help restore some much-needed stability.
But while Van Orden was showing confidence in Hegseth, things got a little more complicated once Hegseth’s name was in the spotlight. Shortly after being nominated by Trump, Hegseth became embroiled in allegations. From accusations of sexual assault to reports of excessive drinking and mishandling funds at veterans’ organizations he ran, it hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing for the nominee. Hegseth has denied all allegations, but that hasn’t stopped the controversy from swirling around him.
While many Republicans are still backing Hegseth, some Democrats are having none of it. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer didn’t hold back, calling Hegseth “woefully unfit” for the role of Secretary of Defense. And Sen. Jack Reed, a top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, also voiced concerns. He said that based on Hegseth’s past actions and writings, he should never hold a leadership position in the military, much less become the Secretary of Defense.
It looks like this nomination will continue to stir up some serious debate—stay tuned!
