Ex-Sister-in-Law of Hegseth Alleges Abuse Toward Second Wife

In a surprising turn during the confirmation process, a woman who was married to Pete Hegseth's brother has sent a sworn statement to the Senate. Her claims suggest abusive behavior by Hegseth, who is up for the defense secretary position. In a response, his legal team has dismissed these allegations.

Allegations Submitted Amid Confirmation Hearings

The former sister-in-law, Danielle Diettrich Hegseth, presented a formal statement on Tuesday. She accuses Pete Hegseth, nominated for the role of secretary of defense by President Trump, of being so abusive toward his second wife that it led her to seek shelter in a closet and use a safety phrase as a signal for help when in distress.

Details of the Accusations

During the review of this statement at a Senate office on Capitol Hill, senators went over her affidavit. The document highlights unpredictable and aggressive behavior from Pete Hegseth, which made his second spouse fear for her safety. Reportedly, there were instances of heavy drinking by him, both privately and in public, once even while he wore his military attire.

Potential Impact on Senate Confirmation

These accusations, not acknowledged by Hegseth as stated by his lawyer, emerged during a pivotal moment of the confirmation process and could potentially derail the efforts for his approval. Informed sources indicate that some Republican senators have expressed serious apprehensions upon learning about these details, which might affect the support he receives from the Senate.

Efforts to Halt the Confirmation

Danielle Hegseth mentioned in her affidavit that she had contacted the FBI regarding Pete Hegseth and engaged with Congress hoping her revelations would convince enough Republicans to deny his confirmation. She noted her statement had been solicited by Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the principal Democrat on the Armed Services Committee.

Concerns from the Armed Services Committee

She stated, 'I have been reassured that this public declaration will sway certain undecided senators to oppose Hegseth’s confirmation.' Senator Reed commented that the claims outline conduct that disqualifies Hegseth and substantiates his belief that the FBI's background examination on him was inadequate.