President Donald Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense has ignited significant controversy, with allegations of misconduct and questions about his qualifications dominating the confirmation process.

Despite concerns raised by Democrats and outside critics, the Senate Armed Services Committee advanced Hegseth’s nomination to the full Senate, where a final vote is expected this week.

Hegseth, a former Fox News host and military veteran, has faced scrutiny for his lack of leadership experience in large organizations and provocative views on issues such as women in combat and the Geneva Conventions.

Critics have also pointed to allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure at two veterans-related charities—claims Hegseth has denied.

The controversy deepened this week when an affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth, was submitted to Capitol Hill.

The affidavit, requested by Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), the ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, includes allegations of volatile behavior that reportedly made Hegseth’s second wife, Samantha Hegseth, fear for her safety.

In a statement, Reed said, “As I have said for months, the reports of Mr. Hegseth’s history of alleged sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and public misconduct necessitate an exhaustive background investigation. I have been concerned that the background check process has been inadequate, and this sworn affidavit confirms that fact.”

The affidavit describes allegations of threatening conduct by Hegseth. However, Danielle Hegseth admitted she did not witness the alleged behavior firsthand.

NBC News reported that when Samantha Hegseth was contacted for comment, she denied any physical abuse in her marriage and referred to court documents she signed affirming that no abuse occurred.

Hegseth’s lawyer also dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the accusations are unfounded.

Hegseth’s critics have also highlighted his professional background.

While he served as an Army National Guard officer, Hegseth did not attain a high rank during his military career.

Additionally, his career as a television personality and author of books espousing controversial theories has fueled doubts about his readiness to lead the Pentagon.

Following his recent Senate confirmation hearing, The Washington Post’s Dana Milbank wrote that Hegseth “also appears to have no idea what he’s doing.”

Despite the controversy, Republican senators on the Armed Services Committee voted unanimously to advance Hegseth’s nomination, signaling strong party support.

If all Senate Democrats oppose the nomination, at least four Republican senators would need to break ranks to block Hegseth’s confirmation.

So far, no Republican senators have publicly indicated opposition.

Traditionally, allegations of misconduct or insufficient qualifications might have disqualified a nominee for a cabinet position.

However, the current political climate appears poised to test those norms.

The Senate is expected to hold a final vote on Hegseth’s confirmation as early as Thursday.

The outcome will determine whether the controversy surrounding the nominee will significantly influence the decision-making process or if party loyalty will carry the day.

With public attention focused on the Senate’s actions, the debate over Hegseth’s qualifications and past conduct is unlikely to subside anytime soon.

The final vote will reveal whether these issues have swayed the opinions of lawmakers or reinforced existing partisan divides.