'An insult': Tammy Duckworth announces how she'll vote on Pete Hegseth

Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth confirmed she will vote against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for secretary of defense.

Her announcement followed a heated exchange with Hegseth during his confirmation hearing earlier this week.

What we know:

Duckworth delivered a scathing critique of Hegseth during a Senate floor speech, calling him unfit for the role on Thursday.

Despite her opposition, Duckworth acknowledged that Hegseth is likely to be confirmed, pointing to support from Republican senators, including Iowa’s Joni Ernst, who was initially uncertain whether she would support him.

What they're saying:

"Part of being a leader is realizing when you're not competent enough to do the job," Duckworth said on the Senate floor. "Well, Mr. Hegseth, you are not technically proficient, you are not tactically proficient, and your nomination is an insult to those brave enough to be serving our nation."

Duckworth, in an interview with FOX 32 Chicago, expressed frustration with her colleagues for prioritizing politics over national security.

"They rolled over, and it’s really sad that that’s where we are," she said.

Republicans, however, have rallied behind Hegseth’s nomination, highlighting his potential to bring fresh ideas to the Department of Defense.

"We need someone who’s going to go in there and fight for innovation, fight for change," said Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt during Tuesday’s confirmation hearing.

What's next:

If the Senate Armed Services Committee advances Hegseth's nomination, then the full Senate is expected to hold a confirmation vote for Hegseth in the coming weeks. His nomination will likely be confirmed.

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