Allegations of misconduct surface just days after Hegseth’s nomination, sparking uncertainty within Trump’s team over the viability of his confirmation

President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team was blindsided this week by a sexual assault allegation against Pete Hegseth, the former Fox News host and newly announced nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense. The revelation came shortly after Trump unveiled Hegseth’s appointment, with only minimal internal vetting conducted prior to the announcement. The news has raised concerns within Trump’s transition team, which is now questioning whether Hegseth’s nomination can proceed smoothly.

The complaint, which was brought to the campaign’s attention within 48 hours of the announcement, aligns with an investigation by Monterey, California, police into an alleged sexual assault that occurred on October 8, 2017. Hegseth, who was attending a conference hosted by the California Federation of Republican Women at the time, has not been charged with any crimes, nor has he been named as a defendant in any lawsuits related to the incident. His attorney has strongly denied any wrongdoing.

Despite the controversy, Hegseth remains a contender for the Defense Secretary role, a position overseeing more than $800 billion in spending and millions of service members. However, the timing of the allegations has cast a shadow over his nomination. Susie Wiles, Trump’s incoming chief of staff, is said to have personally questioned Hegseth about any potential issues following the allegations.

Sources close to the situation revealed that Hegseth’s nomination process had already been unusually swift, with little external vetting prior to his announcement. This lack of thorough review has raised red flags within Trump’s team, especially given the high-profile nature of the Secretary of Defense role. The lack of senior military or public office experience also contributed to concerns about Hegseth’s suitability for the position, with some members of Trump’s circle openly speculating whether he would withdraw his nomination.

Despite the mounting uncertainty, Trump’s communications director, Steven Cheung, has defended Hegseth, asserting that he has “vigorously denied any and all accusations” and that no charges have been filed. Cheung further expressed confidence in Hegseth’s eventual confirmation, saying that he looks forward to the nominee’s work in strengthening national security.

As the controversy unfolds, the transition team is grappling with the challenge of managing the potential fallout. Hegseth’s appointment was already seen as controversial, given his lack of military experience and the unorthodox nature of his selection. However, with the added complication of the assault allegations, questions now surround whether Trump’s team will push forward with the nomination or reconsider its position.