Democrat’s wild claims against Defense nominee fall flat


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A tense exchange unfolded during Tuesday’s confirmation hearing when Democratic Sen. Mazie Hirono grilled defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, focusing on hypothetical military scenarios and personal conduct allegations.

During the questioning, Hirono pressed Hegseth about a controversial 2020 incident involving former President Trump and protesters in Washington, DC. She asked whether Hegseth would follow orders to shoot protesters in the legs, referencing Trump’s alleged directive to then-Secretary of Defense Mark Esper.

“Senator, I was in the Washington DC National Guard unit that was in Lafayette Square. I saw 50 Secret Service agents get injured by rioters,” Hegseth responded.

Hirono then shifted to questioning about potential military actions toward Greenland and the Panama Canal Zone under a future Trump presidency. Hegseth’s diplomatic response about not revealing strategic decisions prompted Hirono to suggest he might consider such invasions.

The exchange sparked immediate reactions on social media. Conservative commentators and politicians criticized Hirono’s line of questioning, with many describing it as absurd. Comedian Tim Young took to X, noting the hearing had “jumped the shark” when Hirono brought up potential conquests of Greenland and Panama.

The hearing grew more contentious when Hirono delved into anonymous allegations about Hegseth’s personal conduct and drinking habits. This prompted conservative media personality Ian Haworth to draw unflattering comparisons on social media, while Rep. Nancy Mace condemned Hirono’s approach as based on “lies and stupidity.”

As the proceedings concluded, conservatives criticized Democratic senators for their focus on personal matters rather than substantial military issues. Vice President-elect JD Vance expressed confusion over the Democrats’ approach, highlighting current military challenges including recruitment issues and combat effectiveness.

Florida’s Voice reporter Eric Daugherty observed that while Republicans addressed crucial military matters, Democrats spent minimal time on relevant defense topics, instead engaging in what he described as incoherent filibustering.

Despite the contentious hearing, sources indicate Hegseth maintains sufficient support for Senate confirmation in the weeks ahead.