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Pete Hegseth’s mother went on a Fox show to speak positively about her son’s character, stating that he had undergone significant personal growth and development. She was defending him against any negative perceptions or criticisms.
Written by Jennifer S. Forsyth
Writing from the nation
Penelope Hegseth, the mother of Pete Hegseth, stated on Wednesday that her son has changed since 2018, when she sent an email accusing him of mistreating women and lacking morals and integrity.
During an interview on "Fox & Friends," Mrs. Hegseth mentioned that Pete has transformed into a different individual, having been forgiven and redeemed.
"I hope that people, especially our female senators, take the time to get to know Pete today and listen to what he has to say with an open heart. It is important to hear the truth about Pete and understand that he does not mistreat women."
She made her presence known after The New York Times released an email she had written while Mr. Hegseth was going through a difficult divorce from his second wife. In an interview with The Times on Friday, she admitted that she didn’t actually mean what was said in the email and that she had apologized to her son in a subsequent email.
Following reports of alcohol abuse and mismanagement of nonprofit organizations, an article in The New Yorker was published this week. Mr. Hegseth is also dealing with allegations of rape made by a woman at a political conference in 2017. Despite an investigation that led to no charges, Mr. Hegseth’s lawyer claims the encounter was consensual.
The negative consequences of the situation have put Mr. Hegseth’s potential leadership of the Defense Department in the upcoming Trump administration at risk. President-elect Donald J. Trump is reportedly considering different candidates for the position instead.
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