Pete Hegseth says he won’t “back down” as scrutiny over misconduct allegations increases

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to be defense secretary, said Wednesday he would not “back down” after new allegations of misconduct sparked growing concern among Republican lawmakers.

“I do this for the war fighters, not the warmongers. The left is afraid of disruptors and change agents. She’s afraid of @realDonaldTrump – and me. So they slander using fake, anonymous sources.” & BS stories. They don’t want the truth. Our warriors never give in, And neither do I,” Hegseth wrote on X.

His comments come at a time when a number of senators have privately signaled they are unwilling to vote to confirm Hegseth as Trump’s next defense secretary, prompting Trump advisers to debate who would be a suitable replacement could, sources familiar with the matter told ABC News.

Sources tell ABC News that at least six senators have privately indicated they do not intend to vote for Hegseth amid growing allegations, including of his mistreatment of women.

Multiple sources also tell ABC News that Trump and Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis discussed the job on Tuesday and DeSantis expressed interest in it.

Hegseth is expected to be back on Capitol Hill on Wednesday for meetings with other senators.