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Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman announced on Wednesday that he would be meeting with President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, on Thursday. Hegseth, a former Fox anchor and military veteran, was nominated by Trump for the position, but his confirmation could be challenged due to allegations of sexual assault and a history of heavy drinking.
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Fetterman, known for his outsider status in Washington, stated that he has not ruled out supporting Hegseth’s confirmation, suggesting that the meeting would allow him to learn more about the nominee. Fetterman told Politico, adding that having conversations with nominees is an important part of his role stating that Pete could theoretically become the head of the Defense Department, While he did not specify the timing of the meeting, Fetterman expressed his eagerness to engage in the discussion.
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The meeting with Fetterman follows a similar meeting that took place earlier in the day between Hegseth and Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins, a key swing vote in the confirmation process. Collins, who is awaiting an FBI background check, mentioned that she would make her decision after the check is completed and after the Senate committee hearing. Collins, who will chair the Senate Appropriations Committee, indicated that she had asked a wide range of questions during her meeting with Hegseth and would carefully review the remaining steps before making a final decision.