Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina stated on Sunday that Pete Hegseth, former Fox News host and nominee for Pentagon secretary, has promised to release a woman who accused him of sexual assault from a non-disclosure agreement.
During an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Graham mentioned, “He told me he would release her from that agreement.”
Graham emphasized the importance of thoroughly investigating any allegations of assault when considering individuals for high-level positions in Washington.
Hegseth, who was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump, faced allegations of assault from an unnamed woman at a Republican conference in California in 2017. Despite no charges being filed, Hegseth settled with the woman in 2023, including a non-disclosure clause.
Reports also surfaced about Hegseth being forced to resign from veteran groups due to financial mismanagement and showing up to work at Fox News smelling like alcohol. Hegseth’s representatives denied these claims, with Hegseth stating he would give up alcohol if confirmed to lead the Defense Department.
Graham expressed his support for Hegseth, citing Kavanaugh’s confirmation process as a comparison where false allegations were made. He indicated that unless credible evidence emerges, he believes Hegseth will overcome these allegations.
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Recent reports suggested that President Trump was considering alternative nominees for Hegseth’s position, including Ron DeSantis, Joni Ernst, and Bill Hagerty.
