Multiple news outlets are reporting that Trump’s nominee to lead the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth, told Senator Elizabeth Warren that he paid $50,000 to a woman who accused him of sexually assaulting her in 2017. Hegseth reportedly made the disclosure in written responses to questions from senators as part of the vetting process for his confirmation. The news comes after Hegseth’s ex-wife provided the FBI with a new statement about Hegseth’s alcohol abuse. CNN reports Samantha Hegseth told agents carrying out a background check, “He drinks more often than he doesn’t.” Hegseth’s divorce agreement with his second wife includes a non-disparagement clause, barring her from making negative public comments about her ex-husband.
In more Pentagon news, Trump officials are reportedly making plans to eliminate a military office, created in 2023, that focuses on reducing civilian deaths in war zones.