Garamendi Statement on Pete Hegseth Confirmation Hearing

January 14, 2025 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement following the confirmation hearing of Pete Hegseth. “Character counts, and every organization takes its behavioral cues from the leader. There is substantial evidence that Pete Hegseth has serious and troublesome character issues that are well-known and well-publicized. Every one of the three million employees, including officers, enlisted servicemembers, and civilians, will know his deplorable history. The 25-year effort by the Department of Defense to promote appropriate behavior in the military will be eroded. Among his problematic behavior, he has glossed over his financial holdings and archaic views on women and other underrepresented communities. Furthermore, it's a fact that Pete Hegseth has no experience in the management of the Department of Defense, the most complex and bureaucratic organization in the federal government. He is clearly and undoubtedly unqualified on all accounts to become the U.S. Secretary of Defense.” ### Issues : Military and Veterans Social Justice