President-elect Donald Trump nominated Fox News host Hegseth to be the new Secretary of Defense. His hearing Tuesday, Jan. 14, was the first in a series of confirmation hearings to vet the incoming president's top choices for key leadership roles.

Republicans seem more than happy to drag Hegseth across the finish line, while Democrats miss easy layups, Eric Garcia and Andrew Feinberg write

Donald Trump’s cabinet picks are beginning their nomination process this week, starting with Trump’s choice for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth

"We must not underestimate the importance of having a top-shelf communicator as secretary of defense," Wicker said.

In a combative hearing, no Republicans came out against Pete Hegseth as he made his case to overhaul the Pentagon.

Donald Trump's pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, is facing stiff criticism from Democrats—but most Republicans back him.

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary, has publicly faced senators for the first time.

Spotted in the crowd were Sean Parnell, a former Army Ranger and conservative media personality, and Tim Kennedy, an ex-UFC fighter and former Green Beret. The group, which was buzzing with excitement ahead of the hearing, appeared to cheer for Hegseth and shout "USA!" as the hearing got underway.

Sen. Roger Wicker, (R., Miss.), the new chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in an opening statement supporting President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth: “Admittedly this nomination is unconventional.

Miss., chair of the Armed Services Committee, has signaled Hegseth is likely to be confirmed as defense secretary.

Hegseth is set to begin confirmation hearings on Capitol Hill. In his opening statement obtained by NBC News, he leans into his outside perspective. “It’s time to give someone with dust on his boots the helm,” he is expected to say. NBC’s Ryan Nobles reports for "TODAY."

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's pick to run the Department of Defense, answered questions Tuesday in a public hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee.