Defense secretary nominee is pressed by GOP Hegseth on her top 3 military issues.

On Tuesday morning, Republican Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst publicly questioned Pete Hegseth's nomination as secretary of Defense, stating that his stance on three "very important issues" surrounding the military was not satisfactory.

As Secretary of Defense, will you support women continuing to have the opportunity to serve in combat roles, as this is one of my top three concerns, Ernst asked Hegseth on Tuesday.

Hegseth replied, "Thank you for your service, Senator. Our discussion was thorough, and I agree with your caveat. Women will have access to combat roles as long as the standards remain high, and we'll conduct a review to ensure they haven't been compromised."

The Senate Armed Services Committee held a hearing on Hegseth's nomination Tuesday morning, and Ernst initially withheld public support before later endorsing him.

In her opening remarks, the Iowa senator stated that she is known for being transparent and direct, thanking Hegseth for being part of the committee hearing. She outlined her top three concerns for Hegseth, which were an audit of the Department of Defense, women serving in combat roles, and ensuring that sexual assault in the military is being effectively combatted.

Before discussing his views on women serving in military combat roles and combating sexual assault in the military, Hegseth stated that he has long advocated for a DOD audit and still supports one.

Ernst stated that combating sexual assault in the military and ensuring that all service members are treated with dignity and respect is a priority for her. She emphasized the importance of this issue and highlighted her work with Senator Gillibrand to bring about changes to the uniform code of military justice. Ernst emphasized the need for the Pentagon to address the tragic and life-altering issues of rape and sexual assault under her watch if she is confirmed.

Will you, as the Secretary of Defense, designate a senior official to focus on preventing and responding to sexual assault?

Hegseth stated that, in accordance with their prior discussion, he would designate an official to that position.

Last year, Ernst initially withheld committing to voting in favor of Hegseth before backtracking and saying she would support the nominee as the Trump orbit was anticipated to ramp up criticisms against Ernst.

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Ernst said in comments last month that she supported his nomination.

At the time, Ernst stated that she supported Pete and looked forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources.

Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Kirsten Gillibrand questioned Ernst about women in the military, with Ernst's questions following.

Hegseth was informed by Shaheen that he had made several unexpected remarks regarding women in the military, despite the fact that women make up approximately 18% of U.S. military personnel.

Hegseth stated publicly that women in our military have been and continue to make outstanding contributions in all areas of our battlefield.

"Mr. Hegseth, I am perplexed about why women in our military would believe they have a fair chance and an equal opportunity to advance in the ranks, given your previous statements that they are not competent and make our military less effective. You have now claimed that you have changed your view on women in the military since being nominated as Secretary of Defense."

Hegseth expressed his concern about the standards for women in combat roles being weakened.

Hegseth expressed his gratitude for the chance to work alongside diverse individuals, regardless of race, gender, or background, with a common goal.

Trump appointed Hegseth, a former National Guard officer, as secretary of Defense in November after his election victory, stating that with Hegseth leading the way, America's enemies would be put on notice, and the military would be great again, and America would never back down. Prior to his nomination, Hegseth was a host on "Fox & Friends Weekend."