The following is the full transcript of an interview with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Republican of South Dakota, on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" that aired on Jan. 5, 2025.

Democrats grilled Trump’s defense secretary pick over ugly allegations against him. But barring a last-minute surprise, he appears on track to be confirmed.

Senate Republicans are expressing optimism that Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to lead the Pentagon, earned the support he needs to be confirmed after he emerged mostly unscathed from his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday.

Though he faces questions about his qualifications, the incoming president’s pick to lead the Defense Department told lawmakers that it was time to put someone “with dust on his boots” in charge of the U.

In a combative hearing, no Republicans came out against Pete Hegseth as he made his case to overhaul the Pentagon.

Although Cabinet nominees' background checks are usually only shared with committee leaders, John Thune said he is open to all members viewing them.

US Congress begins certifying Trump election, four years after Capitol riot January 6, 2025 U.S. Senate Republican leader John Thune faces ... The U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee has ...

Democrats on the Armed Services committee will meet with Chuck Schumer ahead of controversial Trump pick Pete Hegseth's confirmation meeting.