1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense raises significant concerns given the allegations of past sexual misconduct and questionable management practices. While the encounter was consensual according to Hegseth, the confidential settlement reached suggests there were issues that warranted resolution. Additionally, reports of colleagues being troubled by Hegseth's alcohol consumption are worrying for someone seeking to lead our military forces. The Defense Secretary must uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and judgment. I urge you to scrutinize Hegseth's background thoroughly during the confirmation hearings and vote against his nomination if the concerns about his personal behavior and leadership abilities are not satisfactorily addressed. Our armed forces deserve a leader beyond reproach.