As Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense, faces a 2017 sexual assault allegation, more details have come to light. Initially reported by The Washington Post, the allegation involves an incident at a California hotel following a conference. The victim’s friend filed the complaint, claiming the victim was assaulted in Hegseth’s hotel room and later tested positive for semen via a rape kit, though no charges were filed.
Hegseth’s lawyer, Timothy Parlatore, confirmed a payment was made to the accuser, citing Hegseth’s concern over potential career repercussions at Fox News. Parlatore presents a conflicting account, stating Hegseth was intoxicated and the encounter was initiated by the accuser, asserting that the rape kit did not indicate nonconsensual contact. A nondisclosure agreement was reportedly signed years after the incident.
Despite these allegations, Trump’s team continues to support Hegseth’s nomination, emphasizing his qualifications and denying the accusations. The unfolding controversy highlights the complexities of vetting high-profile candidates for major government positions.
