WATCH: Pete Hegseth Smacks Down Democrat Senator’s Screeching Attack

Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, appeared before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday and delivered a masterclass in composure. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), known for her progressive stance on integrating women into all aspects of military service, launched into a screeching monologue, accusing Hegseth of “denigrating” female service members.

“You’ve denigrated active-duty service members,” Gillibrand began. “We have hundreds of women currently serving in the infantry. Lethal members of our military serving in combat units. But you degrade them. You say we need moms, but not in the military, especially in combat units.” Hegseth, a former Army officer and combat veteran, didn’t flinch. The episode also reignited the debate over the role of women in combat and whether political correctness has a place in military decision-making.

While Hegseth has emphasized the importance of keeping standards high to ensure combat readiness in the past, Gillibrand seemed more interested in grandstanding for her base. The senator’s argument was riddled with inaccuracies, including her claim that standards for combat roles have not been reduced. In reality, reports from the military indicate ongoing concerns about how gender-neutral standards have been applied and whether they maintain the necessary rigor.

“As secretary, would you take any action to reinstitute the combat arms exclusion for female service members, knowing full well you have hundreds of women doing that job right now?” she asked. “These are the requirements today for people serving in industry, men and women. They are gender neutral and they are very difficult to meet. They have not been reduced in any way. And our combat units, our infantry is lethal. So please explain specifically because you will be in charge of three million personnel.”

Throughout his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, senators pressed Hegseth on both his personal history and his policy positions, and opinions remain split. To be confirmed as Secretary of Defense, Hegseth needs a simple majority in the U.S. Senate. This means he requires at least 51 votes out of 100 senators if all are present and voting. If there is a 50-50 tie, the Vice President, currently Kamala Harris until January 20, would cast the deciding vote.

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A staunch advocate for veterans, Hegseth has led several nonprofit organizations focused on addressing veterans’ issues.  In November, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, sparking a contentious debate. His nomination has faced scrutiny over both his political positions and past controversies. One of the most significant allegations dates back to 2017, when a female staffer with the California Federation of Republican Women accused Hegseth of sexual assault.

While Hegseth admitted to a sexual encounter, he insisted it was consensual. The district attorney declined to pursue charges, citing insufficient evidence. The matter was later resolved through a financial settlement accompanied by a non-disclosure agreement. Hegseth has been an outspoken supporter of Israel, opposing a two-state solution and endorsing Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank. He has also questioned the value of international alliances like NATO and the United Nations, advocating for a reevaluation of their roles in U.S. foreign policy.