Senator Murkowski Releases Statement on Hegseth Nomination | U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska

Category: Politics

Senator Lisa Murkowski announced her decision to vote against Pete Hegseth's nomination as Secretary of Defense, citing concerns over his qualifications, past behaviors, and the message his confirmation would send to women in the military. She emphasized the importance of character and leadership standards for the role.

Keywords: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense, Lisa Murkowski

Source: Senator Lisa Murkowski

Update At: 1/24/2025

Related Sources

Hunter S. Thompson Remembers Jimmy Carter’s Captivating Bob Dylan Speech (1974)

Hunter S. Thompson's political writing, particularly his coverage of the 1972 Nixon-McGovern campaign, is celebrated for its raw honesty and insight into the political landscape. His encounter with Jimmy Carter at the University of Georgia in 1974 highlighted Carter's views on social justice, influenced by Bob Dylan's music. Thompson's reflections on Carter and his impactful speech reveal the intertwining of politics and culture during that era.

Open Culture

Alabama ethics bill cited in report on attempts to reduce ethics commission powers • Alabama Reflector

A report from the Campaign Legal Center highlights efforts to weaken ethics commissions across the U.S., particularly in Alabama, where proposed legislation aimed to reduce penalties for ethics violations and alter commission appointments. The report categorizes various threats to ethics commissions, noting that many challenges arise in states with Republican control. While some states have strengthened their ethics commissions, the report indicates that approximately 42% of challenges have been successful.

Alabama Reflector

Gov. Kay Ivey sets special election for outgoing Alabama Senate leader's seat • Alabama Reflector

Gov. Kay Ivey announced an election for the Senate seat of outgoing President Pro Tem Greg Reed, with primaries on March 11 and a general election on June 24. Candidates must qualify by January 7. Reed is stepping down to become a senior advisor focusing on workforce transformation. Garlan Gudger has been nominated to succeed Reed, and the seat is expected to remain solidly Republican.

Alabama Reflector

Governor Ivey Calls Special Election for Alabama Senate District Five

Governor Kay Ivey has announced special election dates for Alabama Senate District Five, previously held by Greg Reed. The special primary election is set for March 11, 2025, with a runoff on April 8, 2025, and the general election on June 24, 2025. The qualifying deadline for major parties is January 7, 2025, while independent candidates have until March 11, 2025.

Governor Kay Ivey

Driving Change, Building Opportunity: Senate Democrats' Impact on Michigan

Michigan Senate Democrats reflect on their progress in 2024, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and addressing the needs of residents.

Michigan Senate Democrats

How 1975 sparked the state Vermonters are in today

George Aiken's retirement in 1975 marked the end of an era in Vermont politics, transitioning from a Republican stronghold to a more progressive state. Over the past 50 years, Vermont has undergone significant changes in its political landscape, culture, and infrastructure, influenced by figures like Bernie Sanders and events like Watergate. The state faces ongoing challenges related to development, environmental protection, and social issues, with residents looking to the legislature for solutions.

vtdigger.org

Social Media Giggles At Congress' Reaction To Matt Gaetz's Absence

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz faced mockery after announcing he would not serve in the 119th Congress, following a report of substantial evidence against him for violating House rules. His resignation and the House clerk's description of him as 'honorable' sparked reactions from Congress members and social media.

Yahoo! Maktoob News

Federal courts won’t refer Clarence Thomas for DOJ investigation

The federal courts have declined to refer complaints against Justice Clarence Thomas regarding ethics violations to the Department of Justice. The Judicial Conference rejected requests from Democratic lawmakers to investigate claims of undisclosed luxury travel and gifts. Senior U.S. District Judge Robert Conrad, Jr. stated that Thomas had amended his financial disclosures, addressing some concerns, but raised doubts about the Conference's authority to make such referrals. Similar complaints against Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson were also dismissed, with both justices having filed amended disclosures.

SCOTUSblog

Federal courts won't refer Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to attorney general over ethics

The federal courts will not refer allegations against Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas regarding ethics violations to the Justice Department. Thomas has agreed to follow updated reporting requirements for trips and gifts. The Supreme Court adopted its first code of ethics in 2023, but it lacks enforcement mechanisms. Concerns were raised by Democratic senators about accountability for ethics violations, while a conservative group also filed a complaint regarding Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's disclosures.

The Associated Press

How Clarence Thomas Got Away With It

Justice Clarence Thomas faces no accountability for accepting lavish gifts and failing to disclose them, as the Judicial Conference declines to refer him for investigation. This decision undermines the Ethics in Government Act and highlights the lack of repercussions for judicial misconduct, particularly in the context of campaign finance law and the influence of wealthy benefactors.

Slate Magazine