Moderate Republican Murkowski won't back Trump pick Hegseth for defense secretary

"Given the global security environment we're operating in, it is critical that we confirm a Secretary of Defense, however, I regret that I am unable to support Mr. Hegseth," she concluded in a lengthy statement posted to X. 

In her reasoning, Murkowski cited infidelity, "allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking" and Hegseth's previous comments on women serving in the military. 

The behaviors he has admitted to alone, she said, show "a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces."

While Hegseth has admitted to past infidelity, he has denied claims of excessive drinking and sexual assault. 

The Alaska Republican noted that she met with Hegseth "and carefully reviewed his writings, various reports, and other pertinent materials." 

"After thorough evaluation, I must conclude that I cannot in good conscience support his nomination for Secretary of Defense," she said. 

Hegseth maintained his denial of any allegations of alcohol, physical or sexual abuse. 

Collins told reporters Thursday, "I'll be releasing a statement shortly." 

When asked whether he supports Hegseth, Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., told reporters, "I've told you, I'm going to say the same thing. So, make sure you take notes this time. I am completing due diligence on the latest affidavit to conclude whether or not there is an eyewitness firsthand account that's corroborated."

Hegseth will need a simple majority of the Senate to vote in his favor to be confirmed. With the Republicans' 53-seat majority, he can only afford to lose a handful of the conference. If there is a tie, newly sworn-in Vice President JD Vance will be needed to cast the tie-breaking vote. 

The move to oppose Hegseth's confirmation was not unexpected from Murkowski, who has earned a reputation for occasionally bucking her party. 

Fox News was recently told it was possible Hegseth's confirmation would need Vance's tie-breaking vote. In particular, Fox News was told to watch McConnell, Collins and Murkowski on the pivotal confirmation vote. 

If McConnell and Collins join Murkowski in voting against Hegseth, Vance will need to go to the Capitol to break the tie and confirm Hegseth as defense secretary.

No vice president had ever broken a tie to confirm a Cabinet secretary until former Vice President Pence did so to confirm Betsy DeVos as education secretary Feb. 7, 2017. Pence also broke ties to confirm former Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., as ambassador for religious freedom in 2018. 

Pence also broke a tie to confirm current Budget Director nominee Russ Vought as deputy budget director in 2018.