The vote broke the Senate filibuster and sets up a final confirmation vote, which will likely take place Friday. Democrat John Fetterman voted against advancing Hegseth for secretary of defense.
Senators voted 51-49 to advance Hegseth's defense secretary bid, which has been mired in a series of controversies. Two Republicans are opposed to Hegseth.
Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth cleared a crucial Senate procedural hurdle despite new allegations of abusing a former wife, signaling likely support for his confirmation.