Trump defends Hegseth as his confirmation chances dim

• While Hegseth denied negative news reports and repeatedly claimed to still have Trump's full backing, the president-elect was reportedly considering backup options.

What he's saying: Trump's social media message Friday is the first public comment he's made in support of Hegseth, whom he said was "doing very well."

• "His support is strong and deep, much more so than the Fake News would have you believe," Trump wrote, praising Hegseth's "military state of mind."
• "Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!" Trump added.
• Vice President-elect JD Vance also chimed in on X Friday, writing that "we're fighting for Pete Hegseth ... because Pete Hegseth wil fight for our troops."

The big picture: Hegseth has faced allegations of sexual misconduct, financial mismanagement and excessive drinking that have left multiple GOP Senators with reservations about his nomination.

• One of his top skeptics is Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran and sexual violence survivor, who has emerged as a key vote in determining the viability of Hegseth's nomination and has not yet committed to supporting him.

• If Hegseth is forced to withdraw, he would be the second Trump nominee to do so amid sexual misconduct allegations, after former Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration for attorney general last month.

Go deeper: What to know about Pete Hegseth, Trump's embattled pick for Defense secretary