John Kirby, White House national security communications adviser, said of Hegseth's remarks on North Korea's status as a nuclear power: "We've not made such a recognition. I can't speak to what the incoming team will—how they'll characterize it. We've not gone so far as to make that recognition."

Sen. Joni Ernst’s support is a huge boost to Hegseth’s prospects, all but assuring his confirmation as defense secretary barring twists in the GOP-led Senate.

Amid Tuesday's Senate confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for secretary of defense, MSNBC legal analyst Lisa Rubin raised a question over why Hegseth's ex-wife was not interviewed for his background check.

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) on Tuesday expressed strong support for Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, praising the combat veteran’s cautious approach to military intervention.

Hegseth does not have the qualifications that one would typically associate with the leader of the most powerful military in human history.

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary, has publicly faced senators for the first time.

Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth will publicly face senators on Tuesday for the first time after weeks of privately pushing back on criticism over his qualifications and personal past

He can communicate so well to the American people," Waltz said, adding that Hegseth can articulate "why we need what we need for our troops, and that is a critical piece that President Trump values, as well.

Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump's polarizing pick to lead the Defense Department, vowed Tuesday to fulfill the US president-elect's charge of bringing "warrior culture" back to the Pentagon if he is confirmed.

President-elect Donald Trump has named Troy Meink to lead the US Air Force, highlighting his extensive experience in military service and national security. Trump also announced other nominations, including Chris Stallings and Luke Lindberg for key roles ahead of his inauguration on January 20.

President-elect Donald Trump is poised to nominate Troy Meink, principal deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), to be the next secretary of the Air Force, Aviation Week has learned.