Senator Lisa Murkowski's refusal to endorse Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary has ignited a firestorm of criticism, particularly from Trump supporters. This controversy also brings to light Murkowski's 2021 voting record, where she supported the majority of President Biden's Cabinet nominees – 19 out of 21, according to a Fox News Digital analysis. She voted against Xavier Becerra for Health and Human Services Secretary and abstained from voting on Marty Walsh for Labor Secretary, but notably confirmed Ketanji Brown Jackson's Supreme Court nomination.
Murkowski defended her position on Hegseth, citing concerns beyond the allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking (which Hegseth denies). She emphasized his perceived lack of relevant Pentagon policy experience and past leadership issues within veterans organizations. Specifically, Murkowski highlighted admitted instances of infidelity as demonstrating a concerning lack of judgment unsuitable for leading the armed forces.
This stance drew sharp rebukes, including one from Rep. Derrick Van Orden, who criticized Murkowski for previously supporting Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin despite his role in the controversial Afghanistan withdrawal. Van Orden pointedly referenced the 13 service members killed in Kabul, urging Murkowski to reconsider her position. Interestingly, some within the GOP share Murkowski's reservations about Hegseth, citing concerns about his past conduct and its potential impact on military discipline.
Murkowski's 2020 statement to Politico underscores her belief in a president's right to choose their Cabinet while emphasizing the Senate's duty to ensure nominees are qualified. Fellow Republican Senator Susan Collins, who also opposes Hegseth, voted in favor of all of Biden's 2021 Cabinet nominees. Murkowski's office has been contacted for further comment.
