Trump’s Cabinet Selections Raise Eyebrows Amidst Controversy
President-elect Donald Trump has come under scrutiny for appointing individuals accused of sexual misconduct to his cabinet, echoing the controversies surrounding his own allegations. Trump, who was found liable for sexual abuse against E. Jean Carroll, has chosen at least three men with similar accusations to join his leadership team.
The MeToo movement, which gained momentum following Trump’s 2016 election win, aimed to challenge sexual misconduct and promote accountability for powerful figures. However, Trump’s latest appointments are viewed by some as a step back from this progress.
On November 12, Trump announced Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and military veteran without foreign policy experience, as his choice for Secretary of Defense. Hegseth faced a sexual assault investigation by Monterey Police in 2017, with a rape kit corroborating the presence of semen after an alleged incident at a hotel. Although Hegseth admitted to a sexual encounter, he maintains it was consensual, leading to a settlement with his accuser in 2020. No charges were filed.
The following day, Trump nominated Florida Representative Matt Gaetz for Attorney General. Gaetz, with limited legal experience, was scrutinized by the Department of Justice in 2021 for alleged involvement in the sex trafficking of a minor. The investigation ceased in 2023 despite evidence suggesting illegal activity. Internal investigations from the House Ethics Committee included testimonies about Gaetz’s inappropriate behavior, with accusations of bragging about using medication to enhance his sexual performance.
Gaetz’s nomination coincided with his resignation from Congress, halting the release of the Ethics Committee’s findings. Additional allegations reported by Politico included witness statements about Gaetz participating in drug-fueled sex parties.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., chosen for the Department of Health and Human Services, has also faced allegations of misconduct. In 1998, he was accused of groping his children’s babysitter, a claim he has denied despite an apologetic text to the accuser. During this period, Kennedy reportedly documented numerous extramarital affairs in a “sex diary,” which some speculate contributed to his ex-wife’s suicide in 2012.
Trump is considering Charles Herbster for Secretary of Agriculture. Herbster, who unsuccessfully ran for Nebraska governor, was accused by nine women of groping during his 2022 campaign, allegations he denies.
All nominees, including Hegseth, Gaetz, Kennedy, and potentially Herbster, require Senate confirmation. Trump has pushed for recess appointments, allowing bypass of Senate approval.
Beyond cabinet picks, Trump’s advisors also face misconduct allegations. Corey Lewandowski, an advisor for Trump’s campaigns, was accused of inappropriate conduct at a party in 2017. Elon Musk, an informal advisor, faces accusations of inappropriate relationships and harassment, which he denies.
The unfolding cabinet selections continue to stir public debate, highlighting the recurring theme of accountability and leadership ethics.
