WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after the U.S. Senate voted 50-50 on the nomination of Peter Hegseth as the next Secretary of Defense, and Vice President JD Vance cast a tie-breaking vote in favor of the nomination, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Pete Hegseth is now the Secretary of Defense.  This is who President Trump hand-picked and 50 Republicans fully supported, knowing full well of his past misconduct.  Now he is assuming one of the most consequential jobs in the world, and I fervently hope he is up to the task and will be a responsible, effective leader at the Pentagon. 

“I opposed his nomination, but respect the outcome of his confirmation.  Still, I am going to watch him like a hawk, as I have with previous Secretaries from both parties.  I will point out where we disagree.  I will demand accountability. 

“My top priority has always been national security, and partisanship has no place in that mission.  I will always pick up the phone for Mr. Hegseth and seek opportunities to work with the Secretary to strengthen and support our military.

“I hope Secretary Hegseth comports himself with the wisdom, composure, and character that this awesome responsibility demands.  Our military men and women and, indeed, the American people, deserve nothing less from the Secretary of Defense.”