As the formal confirmation process looms following President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration on January 20, 2025, Trump’s cabinet nominees have already begun lobbying for support on Capitol Hill.

Among the most closely watched is Pete Hegseth, nominated to serve as Secretary of Defense.

Hegseth has faced heightened scrutiny, particularly from Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), who previously expressed reservations about his candidacy.

Hegseth, a former National Guard officer and conservative commentator, has been working to address concerns raised by senators, including Ernst, who met with him twice in recent weeks.

Following their second meeting on Monday, Ernst issued a statement suggesting she is leaning toward supporting Hegseth, though stopping short of a definitive commitment.

“I appreciate Pete Hegseth’s responsiveness and respect for the process,” Ernst said in her statement. “Following our encouraging conversations, Pete committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who will uphold the roles and value of our servicemen and women — based on quality and standards, not quotas — and who will prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks. As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources.”

THIS IS MASSIVE!

Senator Joni Ernst NOW says she SUPPORTS PETE HEGSETH for Secretary of Defense!

Don’t you EVER UNDERESTIMATE the POWER of the PEOPLE. This shows you we CAN STILL control the process!

DO NOT STOP! EVERYONE PARTICIPATES! pic.twitter.com/0u0c5vaVNi

— Shawn Farash (@Shawn_Farash) December 9, 2024

While Ernst’s statement stopped short of outright endorsement, her language was viewed by many as a positive signal for Hegseth’s confirmation prospects.

The senator’s emphasis on a “fair hearing” suggested confidence in Hegseth’s ability to address the concerns raised during their discussions.

Hegseth also commented on the meeting, maintaining a measured but optimistic tone.

Speaking to reporters after the session, he refrained from declaring victory but acknowledged progress.

“It was a great meeting,” Hegseth said when asked by Fox News correspondent Aishah Hasnie about his confidence in securing Ernst’s support. Pressed further, he added, “Whenever she wants [another meeting], we’re ready. But as of right now, it was a great meeting, and we look forward to continuing the process.”

When asked directly whether he believed Ernst was “across the finish line” in her support, Hegseth demurred, stating, “I would never speak for her.”

HASNIE: Do you feel confident leaving that room that she would support you?
HEGSETH: It was great meeting. It was a great meeting.
HASNIE: And will you have another one?
HEGSETH: Whenever she wants. Yeah. But as of right now, it was a great meeting and we look forward to…… https://t.co/kaLGenByWe

— Aishah Hasnie (@aishahhasnie) December 9, 2024

Hegseth’s efforts to secure Ernst’s backing come amid broader GOP optimism about his confirmation.

Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), a prominent supporter of Hegseth, expressed confidence earlier on Monday that the nominee would ultimately win Senate approval.

Hegseth’s nomination has faced criticism from some quarters, including allegations of misconduct, which he has firmly denied.

His supporters argue that these attacks are politically motivated and emphasize his qualifications as a combat veteran and advocate for veterans’ issues.

The formal confirmation process will begin after Trump’s inauguration, with the Senate Armed Services Committee set to hold hearings on Hegseth’s nomination.

Ernst’s role on the committee makes her potential support critical as Republicans aim to secure a smooth confirmation process for one of Trump’s key cabinet picks.

In the coming weeks, Hegseth is expected to continue meeting with lawmakers to solidify support, addressing both policy priorities and personal concerns raised by senators.

I want to thank @SenJoniErnst for taking the time to meet with me again today. She has long been a leader on many important defense issues—which I deeply appreciate. I welcome her ongoing counsel.

I am grateful for Sen. Ernst’s support through this process. pic.twitter.com/NrRRRO9qzh

— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) December 9, 2024

If confirmed, he will play a pivotal role in Trump’s defense strategy, including implementing a promised audit of the Pentagon and reforms aimed at strengthening military readiness and accountability.

While the final outcome of Hegseth’s confirmation remains uncertain, the signals from Ernst’s latest statement have bolstered hopes within GOP circles.

As the confirmation process approaches, Hegseth’s ability to navigate these critical meetings will determine whether he secures the votes needed to lead the Department of Defense under the incoming Trump administration.

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