January 8, 2025
Dear Chairman Wicker and Ranking Member Reed:
As leaders advocating for the prevention of sexual violence, respectful workplace cultures, and the needs of survivors of sexual assault and harassment, we write to share our critical feedback about the nomination of Pete Hegseth to the position of Secretary of Defense. We are grateful to you for the seriousness with which you are carrying out your constitutionally mandated advice and consent role, and we hope that the FBI background check process will be thorough – including outreach to current and former employers and staff – in service of providing you with a full and fair assessment of Mr. Hegseth’s employment history. This information will be crucial in assessing the nominee's fitness, including his professional qualifications, and whether he has demonstrated the ethical conduct and temperament necessary for Senate confirmation.
With women comprising nearly 20% of our armed forces, it is crucial that the leadership of our Department of Defense continue to make significant strides in addressing and preventing sexual assault in the military. In 2021, the Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the U.S. Military (IRC) identified the critical importance of leadership at every level to effectively tackle the problem of sexual assault. The IRC noted, “When women are considered ‘less than’ by their male peers or leaders, unit climates are breeding grounds for gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.”1 According to a 2023 report, the estimated prevalence of sexual assault and sexual harassment in the active forces has declined compared to levels last measured in 2021, marking the first time in nearly 10 years that the Department of Defense has seen a decrease in the estimated prevalence of sexual assault.2 Consequently, we need and deserve a leader with the credibility, character, experience, and commitment to inspire respect and continue this crucial work.
The credible accusation of sexual assault made against Mr. Hegseth in 2017 is deeply concerning. It is also disturbing that Mr. Hegseth did not disclose this incident to President-elect Trump’s transition team. Furthermore, the reports about disrespectful workplace behavior, sexual harassment, and sexist comments made by Mr. Hegseth in multiple workplaces, including his most recent place of employment, Fox News,3 are additional significant reasons for concern about this nomination. At the same time, we are not aware of efforts by Mr. Hegseth to take responsibility for his behavior or to speak to how his behavior has changed or should change. Moreover, in statements made publicly, he has embraced sexist and discriminatory policies.4 Confirming Mr. Hegseth would send the wrong messages to military personnel regarding expectations that they adhere to the highest standards of personal conduct, uphold the values of respect and honor towards others, and that those who engage in sexual harassment or sexual violence will be held accountable.
While commenting on the nomination of Mr. Hegseth, we must also express concern broadly for the well-being of survivors of sexual assault and harassment. When sexual violence is in the news, survivors are watching. How leaders respond to cases of sexual assault and harassment impacts the recovery of survivors, and if not supportive or empathetic, it also can discourage others from coming forward, reducing the likelihood of reporting these crimes.
Unfortunately, victims of sexual violence remain subject to societal stigma, victim blaming, and sometimes harassment. Invalidating the experiences of survivors dismisses the violence they have experienced and minimizes the pain that endures for them. Survivors should be given ways to talk about their experiences that guard their privacy and security. Requests for anonymity are understandable and should be respected. If a survivor chooses to testify publicly, every effort must be made to protect that person, including their personal physical safety and internet safety. Questioning should be respectful and non-accusatory. Social media posts should also be respectful. Moreover, no one should be threatened with litigation for sharing concerns and experiences with public officials.
While the Committee awaits ethics and background checks and further deliberates Mr. Hegseth’s nomination, we ask all members of the Armed Services Committee to carefully and comprehensively consider Mr. Hegseth’s nomination, including the significant concerns detailed in this letter.
Thank you for your consideration.