One of the first confirmation hearings will be one of the most watched.
Trump’s defense secretary nominee is expected to face questions Tuesday about his lack of management experience, alleged drinking, and his past opposition to women serving in combat roles in the military.
Hegseth may also be asked about an allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman in a California hotel room in 2017.
He denies the allegation and maintains that the meeting was consensual.
The allegation was investigated, but Hegseth — a Fox News anchor and military veteran — was never arrested or charged.
Hegseth and the unnamed plaintiff then reached a confidential financial settlement in 2023. His lawyer later told The Associated Press that the payment was intended to prevent a frivolous lawsuit.
Trump stood by his pick, who is among the nominees who have been busy courting senators in recent days to try to garner the necessary votes.
