Inside Pete Hegseth's Legal Drama With His Ex-Wife

Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, has fallen under controversy with accusations of spousal abuse. Pete Hegseth was formerly in the military as an Army National Guard officer before becoming a Fox News talk show. Being appointed Secretary of Defense has caused citizens to question his fitness for leadership due to these allegations.

Pete Hegseth is now married to Jennifer Rauchet, but previously, he was married to Samantha Hegseth. According to NBC News, Danielle, the ex-wife of Pete's brother, revealed that Samantha Hegseth allegedly "feared for her safety" during their marriage. The former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth, stated in the letter in her affidavit that Hegseth is not fit to have any political power because of his despicable behavior.

Danielle reports numerous instances of abuse, including threats and general mistreatment. "Samantha also told me that she once hid in her closet from Hegseth because she feared for her personal safety," she wrote in her affidavit (via Daily Mail). "I have chosen to come forward publicly, at significant personal sacrifice, because I am deeply concerned by what Hegseth's confirmation would mean for our military and our country," she explained.

Following Danielle Hegseth's affidavit, other political leaders have voiced their consternation because of the volume of allegations and concerning behaviors stacked against Pete Hegseth, as this was not the first report.

Senator Jack Reed, a leading democrat, made a statement (via NBC News) about his apprehension: "As I have said for months, the reports of Mr. Hegseth's history of alleged sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and public misconduct necessitate an exhaustive background investigation. I have been concerned that the background check process has been inadequate, and this sworn affidavit confirms that fact."

Despite this, Samantha Hegseth came out in support of her ex-husband to salvage his reputation. "There was no physical abuse in my marriage. This is the only further statement I will make to you, I have let you know that I am not speaking and will not speak on my marriage to Pete. Please respect this decision." Pete and Samantha both even signed a court document to refute any accounts of abuse.