AlterNet: 'Do you have an alcohol problem?' Pete Hegseth confronted during Capitol Hill visit

[Dennis Donovan]

AlterNet - 'Do you have an alcohol problem?' Pete Hegseth confronted during Capitol Hill visit



Donald Trump's defense secretary nominee, Fox News host Pete Hegseth, already faced sexual assault allegations on top of his lack of experience within the Department of Defense. But on Sunday, the New Yorker published a bombshell report containing more allegations against the MAGA pick.

In the past, the potential DOD secretary is said to have been "repeatedly intoxicated on the job," according to the report.

Confronted by a swarm of reporters during his visit to Capitol Hill Monday, Hegseth — while walking with security — was asked by one reporter, "Do you have an alcohol problem?"

The Fox News host ignored the question.

In her report published by The New Yorker, journalist Jane Mayer wrote, "A trail of documents, corroborated by the accounts of former colleagues" reveals that "at one point, Hegseth had to be restrained while drunk from joining the dancers on the stage of a Louisiana strip club, where he had brought his team."

Mayer also interviewed Senate Armed Services Committee senior member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), who spoke to Hegseth's alleged alcohol problems.

"Much as we might be sympathetic to people with continuing alcohol problems, they shouldn't be at the top of our national-security structure," the Connecticut lawmaker said. "It's dangerous."

/snip

[FSogol]

1. Ask if he is abusive to women next.

[sop]

2. Hegseth's nomination is circling the drain.

Any predictions when he will withdraw from consideration? I say by Friday.

[underpants]

3. First, that shouldn't have been asked like that. Second, this is making sense now.

It’s not fair to ask someone about their health. This particular topic basically cements it in everyone’s mind that the answer is yes. I know he’s up for a huge position but that is his business.

As I posted earlier today his not moving up the ranks at Fox makes sense now. He’s tailor made for a big hosting spot but he’s still on weekend duty.

https://www.democraticunderground.com/100219781450

[Dennis Donovan]

4. I have to agree

Alcoholism is a disease.

[SWBTATTReg]

5. Well, having a brother, mother, and sister who were alcoholics, this isn't the way to address the alcoholism.

I can understand the underlying concern, if something comes up for example, that they need a clear head to address something, well, then you'll want a clear head. If anything, dealing w/ alcoholics is not an easy thing, getting them to admit it is the first big step. Then doing something about it is the next big step, and keeping on top of it. It's not easy. Believe me. And the 3 of my family, they are deceased now. We tried everything possible to get them help, but you literally can't throw them in jail (unless they do something criminally serious).

And I agree w/ the Connecticut lawmaker, you don't want this person there, in a highly sensitive job, the Sec. Of Defense...NO.

Now maybe if he provides evidence that he's been through rehab, and other efforts to curb/fix the drinking issue if the drinking is deemed an issue, then don't let this be an issue. But if is, hmmm...

[MaryMagdaline]

6. Anyone remember Senator Towers?

Highly qualified but alcoholism was the final blow to his career.

[kacekwl]

7. Yes he has an alcohol abuse problem

and an adultery, abuse of women problem. Perfect for a top government position in the trump administration. Plus he's a liar so BINGO.