Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Alaska Republican, on Thursday announced plans to vote against Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth ahead of a key Senate test vote on his nomination.

Ms. Murkowski said she did not make the decision lightly but came to the conclusion she “cannot in good conscience support his nomination” after she “carefully reviewed his writings, various reports, and other pertinent materials,” followed his confirmation hearing and gathered feedback from constituents and relevant organizations.

“Managing the Department of Defense requires vast experience and expertise as the department is one of the most complex and powerful organizations in the world, and Mr. Hegseth’s prior roles in his career do not demonstrate to me that he is prepared for such immense responsibility,” she said. 

Ms. Murkowski cited accusations of financial mismanagement and a problematic workplace culture that Mr. Hegseth fostered at two veterans organizations he ran. 

“While the allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking do nothing to quiet my concerns, the past behaviors Mr. Hegseth has admitted to, including infidelity on multiple occasions, demonstrate a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces,” she said. “These behaviors starkly contrast the values and discipline expected of servicemembers. Men and women in uniform are held accountable for such actions, and they deserve leaders who uphold these same standards.”

Ms. Murkowski said character is the defining trait that Mr. Hegseth lacked but she also expressed reservations about his policy positions. 

“Although he has recently revised his statements on women in combat since being nominated, I remain concerned about the message that confirming Mr. Hegseth sends to women currently serving and those aspiring to join,” she said.

Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker said earlier Thursday said he expected some GOP opposition to Mr. Hegseth but that he would have enough votes to be confirmed. 

He suggested Vice President J.D. Vance should remain on standby in case he needed to cast a tie-breaking vote, which means two other Republicans may vote against Mr. Hegseth.

Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky are the two key Republicans to watch, as they’ve not yet stated a public position on Mr. Hegseth.

• Lindsey McPherson can be reached at lmcpherson@washingtontimes.com.