Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald J. Trump's pick for defense secretary, will face a series of questions Tuesday from members of the Senate committee considering his nomination.
It could be a contentious hearing. Mr Hegseth is under intense investigation over allegations of excessive drinking and sexual assault.
She has also come under fire for comments that limit the role of women in the military.
As the Senate Armed Services Committee hearings begin, here's what to watch.
Questions about his drinking
Mr. Hegseth will almost certainly be asked about his alcohol consumption. The New York Times and other news outlets have documented a history of excessive drinking, including several episodes described by Mr. Hegseth himself. He vowed that if approved, “I will never have a drop of alcohol on my lips.” Is that enough for the senators on the committee?
sexual assault charges
How will Mr. Hegseth address concerns about a 2017 police investigation into whether he raped a woman after a speaking engagement in Monterey, California? He said the sexual relationship was consensual and that he agreed to pay the woman a secret financial settlement just to protect his job. No criminal charges were filed.
Management experience
Some recent defense secretaries have had far greater management experience than Mr. Hegseth, a former weekend anchor on “Fox & Friends.” His consecutive terms as head of two small veterans groups from 2008 to 2016 both ended in financial trouble. How will he respond to questions about his ability to lead the Department of Defense, an $849 billion corporation with nearly 3 million employees?
Thoughts on diversity
Hegseth complains about “woke” generals who are “effeminate” the military by supporting diversity policies that alienate “the white sons and daughters of America.”
women in battle
“Women should not be allowed to serve in combat roles,” Hegseth said. He says women can now serve if they meet the appropriate standards. What will he say about whether to turn back the clock on the military?
International policy including the Ukraine war
Lawmakers may also ask Hegseth questions about key international policy issues. He has expressed skepticism about continuing military aid to Ukraine. Is that still his view?
Given Iran's weakened state, should the United States, perhaps in cooperation with Israel, carry out a military strike against Iran's nuclear program?
What further steps should the U.S. military take to counter the growing military threat from China?
