Amid Republican claims of “anonymous smears,” a named person — and a Hegseth, at that — accuses the defense secretary nominee of abusive behavior.

In “The War on Warriors,” published last year, the nominee to head the Pentagon lashes out at “social justice saboteurs” and other fellow Americans.

A cloud of controversy has hung over Hegseth, but he now appears to be on track to be confirmed as Trump's defense secretary.

Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth has come under increased scrutiny over allegations of sexual misconduct and alcoholism.

"Mr. Hegseth categorically denies every word of every allegation,” a Hegseth aide said in a statement provided to the Washington Examiner.

A senator told Hegseth: "I suggest you do a little homework before you prepare for these types of negotiations."

Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth will publicly face senators on Tuesday for the first time after weeks of privately pushing back on criticism over his qualifications and personal past WASHINGTON -- Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth will publicly ...

Miss., chair of the Armed Services Committee, has signaled Hegseth is likely to be confirmed as defense secretary.

Hegseth, 44, is a combat veteran and former Fox News host. The committee voted along party lines to advance his nomination to the full Senate.

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be Defense secretary, at the completion of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis) Pete ...

Hegseth has said the incident led him to be pulled from Guard duty in Washington during President Joe Biden's inauguration. He has denied any wrongdoing over a 2017 sexual assault allegation which did not result in charges, as well as accusations against ...