Republican Senator Thom Tillis has publicly expressed regret over voting to confirm Pete Hegseth as U.S. Defense Secretary, describing his leadership style as “sophomoric” and lacking the experience needed for the role.
In an interview with NOTUS, Tillis admitted that, looking back, he would not have supported Hegseth’s nomination. His vote was particularly significant because he was the crucial 50th senator whose support allowed Vice President JD Vance to cast the tie-breaking vote that secured Hegseth’s confirmation.
Tillis said he had relied on the judgment of colleagues with more defense expertise when making his decision. However, he noted that if he had been able to verify allegations that surfaced during Hegseth’s confirmation process, he would have voted against him. Those allegations included claims of excessive alcohol use and a 2017 sexual assault accusation, both of which Hegseth denied, describing them as part of a coordinated smear campaign.
The senator also criticized Hegseth’s performance at the Pentagon, pointing to what he called repeated missteps since taking office. He questioned Hegseth’s handling of media relations, his conduct during NATO meetings, and his push to rename the Department of Defense as the “Department of War,” arguing that such efforts were poorly timed.
According to Tillis, Hegseth’s tenure has been marked by instability, including the removal of several senior military leaders such as former Joint Chiefs Chairman CQ Brown Jr. and former Chief of Naval Operations Lisa Franchetti. Reports have also indicated that General Chris Donahue is expected to leave his position.
Tillis’ comments come as he prepares to leave the Senate after announcing he will not seek re-election. Since becoming a lame-duck senator, he has increasingly challenged positions taken by President Donald Trump and his administration.
Reflecting on his vote, Tillis said he initially gave Hegseth the benefit of the doubt but now believes that decision was a mistake, concluding, “I do regret it at this point.”
