Mitch McConnell Faces Backlash After Voting Against Pete Hegseth’s Confirmation
Pete Hegseth has officially been confirmed as Secretary of Defense, but not without controversy, especially among Republicans.
Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky sparked outrage after voting ‘yes’ to advance Hegseth’s nomination out of committee, only to vote ‘no’ during the final Senate confirmation. McConnell, 82, further fueled criticism when he was seen walking over to the Democrat side of the aisle after his vote.
Conservative commentator Nick Sortor called McConnell out on social media, sharing a video of the senator’s actions and declaring, “This man HAS TO GO in 2026.” Another user posted a photo of McConnell shaking hands with Democrats, claiming, “The GOP Establishment isn’t going down without a fight.”
McConnell’s actions have led to calls for his removal from key positions. Some suggested Senate Majority Whip John Thune should strip McConnell of his role as chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. Activist Brigitte Gabriel went further, demanding McConnell be “censured, primaried, and ostracized.”
McConnell wasn’t alone in facing backlash. Republican Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who also voted against Hegseth, were slammed for their decisions. Critics argued that Collins, representing a blue state, had some political leeway, but Murkowski’s opposition in a Trump-leaning Alaska was unacceptable.
Despite the drama, Hegseth’s confirmation was secured after Vice President JD Vance cast a tie-breaking vote, only the second such instance in U.S. history. President Trump expressed confidence in his pick, calling Hegseth “a great Secretary of Defense” while addressing reporters.
When asked about McConnell’s vote, Trump brushed it off, saying, “Winning is what matters.”
