WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — As President Donald Trump begins his second term, many of his Cabinet nominees are still awaiting confirmation in the Senate.
Republicans are pushing to push through the votes, but some of the more controversial candidates are facing setbacks.
The Senate has confirmed only two of the president’s nominees, secretary of state and CIA director, but Republican leaders say they will ultimately push through all of the nominees.
The Senate voted Thursday to confirm John Ratcliffe as CIA director.
Senators also advanced the Defense Secretary’s controversial proposal for the nomination of Pete Hegseth.
Hegseth navigated a key procedural vote in the Senate on Thursday, setting up a final vote possibly later on Friday.
Republican Roger Wicker of Mississippi is supporting Hegseth.
“This nomination is unconventional. Maybe that’s why Mr. Hegseth is a good choice,” Wicker said.
The former Fox News anchor and veteran has been accused of sexual assault and financial mismanagement at previous jobs.
He denies these claims.
Democrats like Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed say he is unqualified.
“If Mr. Hegseth is confirmed, he will not improve our military but will destabilize it and weaken the institution,” Reed said.
Two Republicans also say they won’t vote for him: Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski.
Democrats are trying to ponderous down the process.
“Our idea is to get the whole truth out,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) says, “One way or another, these nominees will be confirmed.”
Other controversial candidates have hearings next week, including RFK Jr. for health secretary and Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence.
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