Penelope Hegseth, the mother of Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Defence Secretary, has accused him of mistreating women over the years and exhibiting a lack of moral character. The email, which was written in 2018, was made public by The New York Times just weeks before the new administration is set to take office in January.
In the email, Penelope Hegseth strongly criticised her son, writing, “On behalf of all the women (and I know it’s many) you have abused in some way, I say … get some help and take an honest look at yourself.” She continued, “I have no respect for any man that belittles, lies, cheats, sleeps around and uses women for his own power and ego. You are that man (and have been for years) and as your mother, it pains me and embarrasses me to say that, but it is the sad, sad truth.”
The email was sent during a turbulent time in the Hegseth family, as Pete was going through a divorce. However, following the email’s release, Penelope Hegseth apologised to her son in a phone interview with The New York Times, explaining that she had written the original message “in anger and with emotion” and that the accusations were not true. She defended her son’s character, stating, “It has never been true. I know my son. He is a good father, husband.”
Penelope further expressed her frustration with the publication of the email, calling it “disgusting.” She added, “I have no respect for anyone who would put that out.”
Concerns about Pete Hegseth’s treatment of women have resurfaced in recent weeks following his nomination by Trump to serve as Secretary of Defence. These issues are expected to be scrutinised closely during Hegseth’s Senate confirmation hearings.
Hegseth, a Fox News host and Army veteran, was selected by Trump, who praised him as “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First” when announcing his nomination.