Senate Confirmation Hearing for Pete Hegseth: Correspondence and Insights
The Topic: Senate confirmation hearings for Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth.
Democrats have shown a lack of decorum during this confirmation process (“Hegseth faces Senate attacks,” Jan. 15).
Modern American military conversations often seem too focused on race and gender identity, swayed by advocates of DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) initiatives. If confirmed as Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth will address this and restore our military framework to a merit-based fighting force.
Earl Beal
Terre Haute, Ind.
In a misguided attempt to block Pete Hegseth’s nomination for Defense Secretary, Sen. Mazie Hirono unleashed a tirade against Republicans. Fortunately, the public is becoming increasingly skeptical of such antics.
Bob Heier
Estero, Fla.
If Pete Hegseth is turned down for the Defense Secretary position, those voting against him should feel a sense of shame.
His qualifications and academic background make him an ideal candidate, particularly his extensive experience in Afghanistan and dual Ivy League education. Our nation requires Hegseth to lead the Defense Department; he possesses the necessary skills to excel in this role.
Ann Pooler Barbera
Fort Pierce, Fla.
The Democrats owe it to the American public to ensure Pete Hegseth’s confirmation. His nomination would boost recruitment significantly, and under his guidance, America will remain safe and strong—just as the commander-in-chief demands.
JR Cummings
Manhattan
I empathize with Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth. While Democrats relentlessly grilled him, Republicans offered praise. Why can’t we find common ground?
Matt Engel
Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Sen. Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, described Pete Hegseth as an “unconventional candidate” for the next Defense Secretary.
Following that remark, I wonder if Sen. Bill Cassidy, chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, will use similar language to introduce Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to his committee.
Paul L. Newman
Merion Station, Pa.
The Topic: A federal judge’s ruling for Suffolk County to pay $60 million for detaining migrants.
The classic quote from Oliver Twist — “the law is an ass” — was exemplified last week in Suffolk County when federal Judge William Kuntz determined that the Suffolk sheriff’s office had infringed upon the “constitutional rights” of undocumented immigrants by detaining them for deportation (“$60M Cost for NY’s Migrant Madness,” Editorial, Jan. 10).
Attorney General Letitia James also filed a brief in support of the migrants. It would seem common sense would favor the law, given the initial violation with illegal entry. Yet states’ rights appeared to take precedence.
To avert such confusion in the future, cooperation among ICE, Homeland Security, and local law enforcement is essential. Now Suffolk County faces a hefty $60 million penalty, which is likely to be appealed.
Michael Headley
Brooklyn
Letitia James continues her misguided efforts. She backed a lawsuit against Suffolk County for cooperating with ICE in deportation processes. It’s time to consider the impeachment of federal judges who render such questionable verdicts. We must also ensure stronger collaboration with ICE. All Democratic lawmakers and officials involved, beginning with James, should face removal from office.
Mindy Rader
New City
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