Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized Pete Hegseth for his unconventional tattoos and “conspiracy theories” in a correspondence directed to the nominee for the Department of Defense, highlighting her apprehensions about his selection.
The senator from Massachusetts communicated to the Fox News host in her letter, which was acquired by the Washington Post, expressing that she was “deeply worried” regarding his suitability for the position.
“Your confirmation as Secretary of Defense would harm our national security and undermine a broad range of service members who are prepared to make sacrifices for our nation,” she stated in the lengthy 33-page letter dispatched on Monday.
Warren referenced an incident in 2021 when Hegseth, then serving in the National Guard, was prohibited from providing security during President Joe Biden’s inauguration after being classified as an “insider threat” due to his “Deus Vult” tattoo.
“Deus Vult,” which Hegseth has tattooed on his arm, translates to “God Wills It” in Latin. Historically used by Crusaders in the Middle Ages, the phrase has since been linked to right-wing radicalism.
“We cannot appoint a Secretary of Defense whose fellow service members are concerned enough to report him as a possible insider threat,” Warren expressed.
The National Guard report that resulted in Hegseth’s exclusion from Biden’s inauguration also contained images of his Jerusalem cross tattoo, which has significant historical roots in Christianity yet has also been appropriated by extremist groups.
This incident, first highlighted in December, led to Hegseth’s departure from the National Guard. In his book, The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free, he expressed feelings of being targeted and rejected by the military.
“The sensation was mutual – I didn’t desire to continue in this Army either,” he noted.
The letter also addresses Hegseth’s conspiracy theories related to January 6, asserting that the events were executed by leftists disguised as Trump supporters. Warren pointed out Hegseth’s refusal to acknowledge Trump’s loss in the 2020 election.
“We cannot engage a Secretary of Defense who is promoting conspiracy theories and making claims that are disconnected from reality,” she wrote.
The correspondence also elaborates on accusations regarding Hegseth’s alcohol abuse, allegations of sexual misconduct, and his opposition to diversity within the military.
He has denied the sexual assault accusations made against him and insisted that he does not struggle with alcohol problems.
Hegseth is scheduled to face the Senate Armed Services Committee for his confirmation hearing on January 14.
In her letter, Warren cautioned Hegseth that he ought to be prepared to answer questions addressing her concerns and requested that he respond in writing by Friday.
