Hegseth, Gaetz, Kennedy nominations spark bipartisan concerns

President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, as secretary of defense has drawn sharp criticism across party lines, reports the New York Times. Critics point to Hegseth’s lack of senior command or Pentagon management experience, a key qualification for overseeing the $849 billion Defense Department.

Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth, labeled the pick “dangerous,” citing concerns about Hegseth’s divisive rhetoric, including opposition to diversity initiatives and support for service members accused of war crimes. Republican Sen. Joni Ernst expressed doubts, while others, like Sen. Kevin Cramer, cautiously praised Hegseth’s potential to drive reform.

Observers have also criticized Hegseth’s focus on culture wars over coalition-building and military readiness. Retired Maj. Gen. Paul Eaton called Hegseth “the most unqualified nominee” he has seen.

Proponents, including Rep. Michael Waltz, argue Hegseth could bring needed reform to the Pentagon. However, bipartisan skepticism about his readiness underscores the contentious nature of the appointment.

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports Matt Gaetz's nomination for attorney general is a no-go for some, with Senate Republicans signaling significant opposition due to sexual-misconduct allegations and Gaetz’s controversial reputation.

Sources close to Senate discussions suggest far more than the three GOP votes needed to derail Gaetz’s confirmation are in opposition, with some estimates exceeding 30. Critics, including Sen. Kevin Cramer, question whether the political cost of advancing Gaetz’s nomination is worth it, while others, like Sen. Markwayne Mullin, indicate Gaetz might voluntarily withdraw under intense scrutiny.

The House Ethics Committee, which ended its investigation after Gaetz’s resignation, faces pressure to release its findings. Senators across party lines, including Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin, demand access to the report to evaluate Gaetz’s suitability.

Trump, who reportedly selected Gaetz during a flight to Washington, may struggle to unify Senate Republicans behind the controversial pick. Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that recess appointments to bypass confirmation are unlikely.

The nomination is further complicated by Gaetz’s Justice Department investigation history, ending without charges in 2023, and his divisive Capitol Hill record, including the ousting of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Critics cite Kennedy’s history of promoting vaccine misinformation, unorthodox medical views, and attacks on public health institutions, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Finally, in the Times, a doubter's chorus greets the Kennedy nomination to HHS. Senator Patty Murray called the pick “catastrophic,” while public health experts, including former CDC officials, warn Kennedy’s stances could undermine trust in critical health agencies. Even among Republicans, the nomination faces uncertainty.