Republicans Collins and Murkowski Oppose Pete Hegseth's Nomination for Defense Secretary

The nomination of Pete Hegseth for the position of Defense Secretary is likely to pass in the Senate with a narrow margin, facing unanimous opposition from Democrats and the dissent of two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski. Known for their centrist approach, Collins and Murkowski have historically challenged Donald Trump's agenda, and they articulated their reasons for opposing Hegseth during a procedural vote.

Both senators voiced concerns regarding Hegseth's past remarks on women in military combat roles. Collins pointed out her apprehension about Hegseth's purportedly evolving views, stating that she remained doubtful that his position had genuinely changed since his nomination. Similarly, Murkowski expressed worries about the implications of confirming someone with Hegseth's track record, emphasizing that women have demonstrated their capabilities and should be assured that their leadership respects their contribution to the armed forces.

The timing of Collins and Murkowski's statements, coinciding with the cloture vote, suggested a lack of effort on their part to rally additional Republican senators against Hegseth. With the departure of influential senators like Mitt Romney and John McCain, their role in the current Senate, which is predominantly Republican, appears diminished yet remains critical. They still have an opportunity to influence policies, particularly regarding issues such as reproductive rights that may be challenged by the Trump administration.

Unlike many Republicans, Collins and Murkowski appear to be less vulnerable to backlash from Trump's base. Past actions, such as their collaboration with John McCain to block the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, highlight their willingness to resist the party line, a trait not always embraced by their constituents, evident in the struggles of Sinema and Manchin following similar actions.

As political analysts predict a potential shift in Congressional control by Democrats in the 2026 midterms, the focus turns to how Collins and Murkowski's influence may shape or resist Trump’s policies over the next two years. As Trump approaches his first significant budget negotiations with Congress, it will be telling whether these centrist senators choose to engage meaningfully in the discussions or remain observers of intra-party conflicts.