Betsy Woodruff Swan, a sharp National correspondent for POLITICO, dives into the high-stakes saga surrounding Pete Hegseth's faltering Defense secretary nomination. They explore his last-ditch efforts to counter skepticism from Republican senators like Joni Ernst over serious allegations of misconduct. Betsy highlights the shifting strategies in Hegseth's camp and the broader implications for Trump's administration. The conversation also hints at the intriguing dynamics at Fox News regarding Hegseth's conduct and what this means for the political landscape ahead.
Pete Hegseth faces a tumultuous confirmation battle for Defense Secretary due to serious allegations that threaten his nomination.
Democratic power dynamics are shifting as Congressman Jerry Nadler withdraws support for his own bid, endorsing Jamie Raskin instead.
Deep dives
Congressman Nadler’s Withdrawal and Support for Raskin
Congressman Jerry Nadler has decided to withdraw from his bid to become the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, shifting his support to Representative Jamie Raskin from Maryland, who has entered the race. This change reflects an evolving dynamic within the Democratic ranks, especially as Raskin, a close ally of Nadler, seeks to take over a vital leadership position. The decision highlights potential rifts and the strategies involved in the pursuit of power within the party, showcasing how such movements can shift the political landscape. As Democrats navigate their internal contests, they must also contend with external pressures from a busy Republican agenda.
Trump's Administration Appointments and Their Implications
President-elect Donald Trump's recent appointments present a significant shift in administration direction, marked by the selection of notable figures like Kelly Loeffler to lead the Small Business Administration and Paul Atkins for the SEC. These selections suggest a tendency towards a more favorable stance on cryptocurrency and deregulation, reflecting Trump's broader agenda for economic management. Former Congressman Billy Long's appointment to the IRS, despite prior efforts to abolish the agency, indicates a complex relationship between personal histories and political decisions within the administration. These appointments set the stage for the forthcoming operational strategies and policy decisions under Trump's leadership.
Hegseth's Troubling Confirmation Process
Pete Hegseth, Trump's nominee for Defense Secretary, faces a challenging confirmation process amid serious allegations concerning his past conduct, including claims of sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse. In an attempt to shift public perception, Hegseth has mounted a media offensive, participating in friendly interviews and writing combative op-eds to counter the negative narratives surrounding him. The backing from familiar Fox News figures serves to bolster his position, yet many Republican senators express concern regarding the allegations and their potential impact on his confirmation. The situation highlights the delicate balance between formal political support and public sentiment, posing questions about Hegseth's long-term prospects in the role.
With his nomination for Defense secretary teetering on the brink, Pete Hegseth will soon learn whether his 11th-hour offensive yesterday to save his nomination has succeeded. As Republican senators — notably including combat veteran Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) — express concerns about some of Hegseth’s views as well as the allegations of sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse, which he has denied, the nominee has remained resolute: “We’re not going anywhere,” he told Hill reporters yesterday. But it might not entirely be his call. National correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan and Playbook co-author Rachael Bade discuss what to watch for now. Plus, President-elect Donald Trump announces another flurry of key administration officials, and Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) rises in the ranks.
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