Hegseth denies the allegations outlined in the affidavit, which says he was abusive to his second wife to the point where she feared for her safety.

Republicans pushed forward with Pete Hegseth’s nomination as secretary of defense on Wednesday even after a damaging report emerged claiming that his second wife lived in fear of his

Danielle Hegseth also claimed that Samantha told her that she once hid in a closet at home because she was afraid. Hegseth has denied the allegations through his attorney, who called Danielle Hegseth an “anti-Trump far left Democrat who is divorced from Mr.

John Cornyn, R-Texas, said he was aware of the reported allegations ... In the affidavit, Danielle Hegseth also alleges that Pete Hegseth, while under the influence of alcohol and both were leaving a bar, repeatedly shouted “no means yes!”

Pete Hegseth, the controversial former Fox News host, has been accused of sexual assault and faces a grueling confirmation hearing on the path to becoming the next secretary of defense.

Lawmakers and allies weighed in on Trump's defense secretary nominee and the questioning he faced from senators during his confirmation hearing.

Texas, described the week of hearings for President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations as a “train wreck,” as many nominees face uncertain Republican votes. NBC News’ Ryan Noble reports on the week ahead featuring Secretary of Defense nominee Pete Hegseth.

Asked directly about the sexual assault allegation, Hegseth dismissed it as a “smear campaign” as he portrayed himself as unfairly attacked.

Donald Trump’s choice for defense secretary is heading into a potentially explosive Senate confirmation hearing.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump's choice for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth ... Asked about advice for Hegseth, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, referred to that earlier example.