Trump’s Cabinet Choices Draw Scrutiny Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations
President-elect Donald Trump, who is facing accusations of sexual misconduct from 26 women, has drawn attention for appointing several men to his cabinet who have also been accused of sex-related offenses.
Following Trump’s 2016 election win, many pointed to it as a catalyst for the MeToo movement, which aimed to remove sexual predators from positions of authority. Trump’s latest appointments have prompted discussions about whether this signifies a setback for the movement.
Pete Hegseth Nominated as Secretary of Defense
On November 12, Trump announced his choice of Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. While Hegseth is a decorated veteran, he lacks experience in foreign policy and national security.
Hegseth was investigated in 2017 for sexual assault by the Monterey Police Department in California. A Republican operative accused him of rape following an event at a hotel. Although Hegseth acknowledges a sexual encounter, he claims it was consensual. A settlement was reached in February 2020, with the accuser receiving an undisclosed sum.
No criminal charges were filed against Hegseth.
Matt Gaetz as Attorney General Nominee
Trump nominated Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for Attorney General on November 13. Gaetz has a legal background but minimal experience for the role.
The Department of Justice investigated Gaetz in 2021 for potential involvement in the sex trafficking of a minor, but the investigation was dropped in 2023. The House Ethics Committee also launched an inquiry, supported by bipartisan lawmakers. Allegations included Gaetz boasting about sexual exploits.
In October 2023, Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin claimed Gaetz showed explicit photos and videos to legislators. Gaetz resigned from Congress on the day of his nomination, halting the release of the Ethics Committee’s findings.
A report by Politico indicated that a woman testified about Gaetz’s involvement with an underage girl and attendance at drug-fueled parties. Gaetz denies these claims.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services
On November 14, Trump chose Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Initially a Democratic presidential candidate, Kennedy switched to an independent campaign before endorsing Trump.
In July, Vanity Fair reported allegations that Kennedy groped a babysitter in 1998. Kennedy denied it but apologized for any discomfort caused. His personal life, including a “sex diary,” has been scrutinized, with reports suggesting it contributed to his ex-wife’s suicide.
Possible Agriculture Secretary Nominee: Charles Herbster
Business executive Charles Herbster is under consideration for Secretary of Agriculture. Herbster, a Republican donor, faced accusations from nine women during his 2022 gubernatorial campaign. He denies the allegations.
Senate Confirmation and Other Controversies
For Hegseth, Gaetz, Kennedy, and potentially Herbster, Senate confirmation is required. Trump has urged the Senate to allow recess appointments to bypass this process.
In May, a jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing writer E. Jean Carroll in 1996, awarding her $5 million in damages.
Several of Trump’s advisers have faced similar accusations. Corey Lewandowski, a campaign adviser, was accused of inappropriate behavior in 2017. Elon Musk, an informal adviser, has also been accused of sexual misconduct, which he denies.
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