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Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Lakshmi Singh.

President-elect Donald Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon is battling accusations of sexual

misconduct and heavy drinking.

A former colleague at Fox News tells NPR that Pete Hegseth got, quote,

Hansi while inebriated on multiple occasions.

NPR's David Fokkenplick has details.

The former colleague tells NPR that Hegseth once even groped her bottom at a Manhattan bar.

She asked not to be identified for fear of retribution.

Hegsteth came to prominence as the host of Fox and Friends weekend.

Hegset's attorney, Timothy Palletetori called the allegation a false claim.

Through a spokesperson, Fox tells NPR that it had not received complaints about that accusation.

On Tuesday, NBC reported that 10 current and former Fox colleagues alleged Hegset drank alcohol to excess.

Palletori said that had been debunked by allies at Fox who have stepped forward to defend his

name.

In 2018, Hegseth's mother privately denounced her son's behavior.

This morning, she appeared on Fox and Friends to try and help him save his nomination.

David Fulkenflick, NPR News.

Nearly 10 hours after United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was gunned down outside of Manhattan

Hotel, his killer is still at large.

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch says the suspect was waiting for Thompson.

At this time, every indication is that this was a premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack.

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