Transitioning from the
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On a Fox show, the mother of President-elect Donald J. Trump’s nominee for defense secretary spoke out in support of her son’s character, stating that he has undergone positive changes.
Written by Jennifer S. Forsyth
Writing from the capital
Penelope Hegseth, 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 integrity and morals.
During an interview on "Fox & Friends," Mrs. Hegseth mentioned that Pete has transformed into a new individual, having been forgiven, redeemed, and changed.
I hope that people, especially our female senators, will take the time to truly understand who Pete is today. It is important to listen to him with empathy and an open heart, and recognize the truth about him. It is worth noting that he does not mistreat women.
She came forward after The New York Times released an email she wrote while Mr. Hegseth was going through a difficult divorce from his second wife. In an interview with The Times on Friday, she mentioned that she didn’t stand by what she said in the email and had already apologized to her son in a subsequent email.
Following reports of alcohol abuse and mismanagement of charitable organizations, an article in The New Yorker brought attention to these issues. Additionally, there were allegations of assault made by a woman who accused Mr. Hegseth of raping her at a political event in 2017. Despite an investigation that did not lead to any charges, Mr. Hegseth’s lawyer stated that the encounter was consensual.
The negative consequences of recent events have put Mr. Hegseth’s prospects of leading the Defense Department in the upcoming Trump administration at risk. It has been reported that President-elect Donald J. Trump is considering alternative candidates for the position.
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