Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Denounces Pete Hegseth’s Confirmation to be Secretary of Defense; Calls out Misconduct and Backwards Views on Women

CONTACT: Lizzie Johnson lizzie.johnson@mail.house.gov (DWC) 

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, Friday, January 24, 2025, the Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth to be Secretary of Defense. Hegseth has been credibly accused of sexual assault and abuse, said women shouldn’t work, vote, or serve in combat, and has never held a senior military or public office position. Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released the following statement denouncing Hegseth’s confirmation:

“Pete Hegseth is unfit and unqualified to be Secretary of Defense, a role critical to protecting our country and our service members. 386,300+ women bravely serve our country in the armed forces. A man credibly accused of sexual assault and abuse is not equipped to keep them safe, address the pervasive sexual assault in the armed services, or treat them with the respect they deserve,” said Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03).

“Hegseth is not only abusive, he also said women shouldn’t be able to vote, work, or serve in combat, claiming women lack qualifications. These comments reflect Hegseth and Republicans’ view that would take women back a century. We know America’s women vote, serve our country, work, and show up for our families & communities. As Senator Tammy Duckworth said, the person without the qualifications is Mr. Hegseth. America deserves better.” 

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