On Sunday, Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) defended Pete Hegseth against claims regarding his drinking habits, arguing that the allegations are unfounded. Mullin expressed his views during an interview with Jake Tapper on CNN’s “State of the Union,” asserting, “If he actually had a drinking issue, it would be evident.
However, to fabricate concerns simply because he is being considered for the Secretary of Defense position is shameful behavior from the media.” As Hegseth seeks to become the head of the Pentagon, allegations of excessive drinking have surfaced.
Mullin defends Hegseth in the middle of drinking allegations in fiery CNN interview
Recently, The New Yorker reported that Hegseth was urged to step down from two nonprofit organizations he led due to issues related to fund mismanagement, sexual misconduct, and heavy drinking. Additionally, NBC noted that concerns about his drinking had emerged among his former colleagues at Fox News.
In light of these developments, Republican senators have increased their scrutiny of Hegseth, particularly regarding his alleged past alcohol abuse and sexual misconduct. Despite the ongoing controversy, Hegseth maintained his resolve, stating on Wednesday that he would not yield to the pressure.
He took to the social media platform X, claiming to be the target of a Democratic smear campaign. “My motivation comes from supporting the warfighters, not the warmongers. The Left fears disruptors and change agents, and they are afraid of @realDonaldTrump—and me,” he declared.
During his segment on “State of the Union,” Mullin commented, “Washington, D.C., has a culture where alcohol consumption is common, but I wouldn’t label individuals as alcoholics simply due to that.”
He further stated, “I don’t perceive it as an issue at all. I really hope the media shifts focus to Hegseth’s potential contributions as Secretary of Defense, as he possesses many valuable qualities.”
