The controversy surrounding President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, has brought to light a tumultuous history involving allegations of financial mismanagement, repeated intoxication, and sexual misconduct. The battle over Hegseth’s nomination has become a test of loyalty for Republican stalwarts, some of whom were involved in efforts to remove him from leadership positions in a veterans’ charity a decade ago.
One of the key figures in the campaign to oust Hegseth from his role as head of Concerned Veterans of America in 2016 was Jessie Jane Duff, a Marine veteran who served as an executive director for President-elect Trump’s 2024 campaign. Multiple Republican insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Duff had raised concerns about Hegseth’s behavior, including allegations of public intoxication, poor leadership, and creating a toxic work environment within the organization.
Tax filings from Hegseth’s tenure as director and executive director of Veterans for Freedom reveal a concerning financial picture. While the organization raised millions in revenue, it also spent more than it brought in, leading to a significant decline in funds by 2011. Additionally, concerns were raised about the hiring of Hegseth’s brother, Philip Hegseth, while he was still in college.
A recent report published by The New Yorker uncovered further allegations of sexual misconduct by Hegseth and other men at Concerned Veterans for America. The report, which originated with Duff and was circulated among Republican circles in 2018, detailed incidents of public intoxication and inappropriate behavior. Despite these allegations, Hegseth’s attorney has denied all claims against his client.
In response to questions about his resignation from Concerned Veterans for America, Hegseth remained silent and declined to comment on whether the allegations could impact his nomination as defense secretary. Duff, who was once a vocal critic of Hegseth, now publicly supports his nomination and has defended his controversial views on women serving in combat.
Hegseth’s leadership abilities have come under scrutiny, with critics questioning his management of Veterans for Freedom and his suitability to lead the Defense Department. Margaret Hoover, a former adviser to Vets for Freedom, expressed doubts about Hegseth’s capability to oversee such a large organization given his track record at the nonprofit.
The allegations against Hegseth also include claims of public intoxication and a reported settlement with a woman who accused him of sexual assault in 2017. The Monterey Police Department investigated the incident but declined to file charges due to lack of evidence. Hegseth denies the allegations and maintains that the encounter was consensual.
As Hegseth’s nomination for Secretary of Defense moves forward, the controversy surrounding his past conduct continues to raise questions about his fitness for the position. Supporters and critics alike are closely watching the confirmation process to determine whether Hegseth will be able to overcome these allegations and lead the Defense Department effectively.
