That is the case of President Donald Trump’s nominee for the secretary of Veterans affair Pete Hegseth who underwent a grilling by Senate Democrats during his confirmation hearing today. Hegseth used to work as a Fox News host and served in the Army National Guard; he is a member of the board of directors of the VA and an advocate for privatization of vets’ healthcare provision.
The democratic senators were concerned that the lineup Hegseth is carrying on privatization would weaken the VA’s ability to deliver healthcare to millions of veterans. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) asked Hegseth if his proposals are driving the “systematic dismantling” of the VA. “Our veterans deserve a strong, well-funded VA—not an experiment in privatization,” Murray said, challenging Hegseth on assertions alleging that contracting out treatment would increase efficiency and access.
Hegseth backed up his vision for the department stating that having more choices for veterans to choose their healthcare providers is what addresses resolved longstanding concerns like; appointment wait times and lack of quality care. This I believe is very much about supporting and doing what is best for our veterans. They should have the right to select the finest care out there,” Hegseth said, arguing that his approach would complement VA instead of replacing it.
As much as the democrats were questioning his capacity and the policies that he was likely to pursue if approved to lead Centene, republican senators stood for him. President Trump has endorsed Hegseth for the VA Secretary job citing his military background and commendation for his efforts and dedication towards enhancing the lives of veterans.
‘There can’t be a more qualified senator to represent our veterans than Pete who has been a soldier and has been there and done it,’ Graham said. Sure, the issues are complex, but he is the right man to address them at the VA.
Other GOP senators emphasized Hegseth’s past as an advocate for veterans. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) termed him a “passionate and fearless reformer” who had the resolve to reform a department that has faced repeated scandals over the past decade.
But Hegseth’s detractors also noted the controversies that erupted during his stint as head of advocacy groups like Concerned Veterans for America, which he helped to push policies criticized as favoring privatization over public services too much.
The hearing concluded with Hegseth assuring lawmakers he’s committed to strengthening the VA as he pushes across party lines to make the bill happen. “This isn’t about politics—it’s about serving those who served us,” he said.
The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee will vote on Hegseth’s nomination sometime soon. And, with a majority of the members being Republican, his appointment will likely get passed, even if it was to be accompanied by heavy opposition from Democrats.
