January 14^th kicked off what could be the most contentious of hearings for President-elect Donald Trump’s top picks as Pete Hegseth began his confirmation process. Hegseth, who has been tapped for Secretary of Defense, has headed off a number of criticisms, including whether he supports women in combat roles, sexual assault allegations, and allegations of heavy drinking. During his opening statement and despite all the controversy, Hegseth’s praised God. “All Glory, regardless of the outcome, belongs to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His grace and mercy abounds each day. May his will be done,” Hegseth announced. He stated the prayer was something he and his wife pray every day.

During his statement, Hegseth was interrupted by shouts of protesters, with at least four being escorted out of the hearing. However, around 200 Navy Seals marched in DC in support of Hegseth. He acknowledged his thanks to his supporters. “Officers enlisted; Black and white, young and old, men and women, all Americans, all warriors. This hearing is for you. Thank you for figuratively and literally having my back,” he said. He stated that Trump had chosen him to “bring the warrior culture back to the Department of Defense.”

Hegseth served in the military in the early 2000s and was deployed to such places as Iraq and Cuba. During his service, Hegseth received the Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star Medal. Much like Donald Trump, Hegseth presents himself as something of an outsider, having never served in public office prior to his nomination. Like Trump as well, Hegseth is something of an imperfect vessel of Christianity. Hegseth is on his third marriage, with a known history of infidelity. While he faces accusations of sexual assault in 2017, Hegseth states the encounter was consensual, but that he was married at the time, thus why he paid a settlement to his accuser. “I did it to protect my family. I did it to protect my job,” he said of the incident during his hearing. He admitted to being a “serial cheater,” but stated that he “truly was changed by Jen and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Jennifer Rauchet is Hegseth’s third and current wife.

Hegseth faces a narrow path to confirmation. As it is likely Democrats will not support his nomination, should even two Republicans choose not to back him, his confirmation will be blocked. Republican Joni Ernst of Iowa, who had previously indicated her skepticism of Hegseth’s nomination, now states she will support him. The Senate Armed Services Committee could vote as early as Monday on whether or not Hegseth’s nomination should be presented to the complete Senate.