GOP senator comes out in favor of embattled Pentagon pick facing pressure from MAGA allies

Last week, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) appeared to be against Donald Trump's announced nominee for the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth.

But on Monday, Ernst met with him again and now pledges her support.

“Pete committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who will uphold the roles and value of our servicemen and women and who will prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks," she writes in a statement.

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Ernst is a survivor of sexual assault who has tried to stop sexual assaults in the military. She is also reportedly a top contender for the role should Hegseth's nomination fail. Hegseth's nomination has been plagued by revelations he was accused of rape in 2017 and amid accusations he has a drinking problem. He has also advocated against having women in combat roles.

Hegseth claimed that the sexual encounter was consensual. His attorney, Tom Parlatore, has said his client entered into a confidentiality agreement with the accuser.

"As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources," Ernst said.

Other lawmakers have demanded that he swear not to drink while under the position after concerns that he was an alcoholic from former and current Fox colleagues.

Ernst, a former Army National Guard member and a retired lieutenant colonel, indicated Thursday she wasn't ready to support Hegseth.

A spokesperson for Ernst told Newsweek: "As Senator Ernst has said, she is not seeking to be secretary of defense, there is no 'campaign' against Pete, and is continuing the vetting process."

Her comments led to social media backlash from MAGA allies, including Charlie Kirk, the founder of the nonprofit conservative Turning Point USA.

"People in Iowa have a well-funded primary challenger ready against her. Her political career is in serious jeopardy," he threatened on X.

Read the full statement here.