1. United States
2. N.J.
3. Letter

Concerns have been raised about Pete Hegseth's troubling record on issues of sexual misconduct and assault that warrant scrutiny during the confirmation process. As a television commentator, Hegseth was accused of sexual assault by a former colleague, though he denied the allegations. The nomination of someone with potential issues involving the mistreatment of women raises questions about his ability to lead an institution striving to address its sexual assault crisis and promote an ethical professional culture. Coupled with Hegseth's controversial statements opposing women in combat roles, this background casts doubt on his preparedness to advance necessary reforms and uphold standards of conduct befitting the nation's top defense official.