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Hello and welcome to the DSR Daily. I'm David Rothkopf, and I'm joined by Riley Fessler. How are you doing today, Riley? Not too bad. Excellent. And Minna Stein. How are you today, Minna?

I'm well, thank you. How are you? Really, I'm okay. I'm surviving.

Okay, Minna, kick us off. Pete Hexeth, nominated for Secretary of Defense, faced intense scrutiny during his confirmation hearing over allegations of sexual assault, excessive drinking,

and controversial statements on women in combat. Despite

defending himself against these accusations, he struggled to address concerns about his limited

government experience and qualifications for handling international security matters. However,

strong support from Republican senators and his commitment to key policies, like

not drinking, if confirmed, positioned him favorably for confirmation despite Democratic opposition.

Yeah. I mean, oh my God. Seriously, America? Pete Hegson, Secretary of Defense? Yesterday's display was pathetic on every side.

Hegseth was probably the smarmiest guy I've ever seen participate in these things, and I watch Brett Kavanaugh, and I've seen Donald Trump.

And he just really tried to weasel his way out of every tough question he was given.

...