Pete Hegseth’s controversial nomination as defense secretary moved a step closer to confirmation with the Senate Armed Services Committee recommending him to the job on party lines. U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., voted Monday against Hegseth, citing a lack of managerial experience and “concerning personal issues.”

Senator Mark Kelly opposed Peter Hegseth's nomination as Defense Secretary, citing his lack of qualifications and past issues.

Senator Mark Kelly questioned Defense Secretary nominee Peter Hegseth on alleged past misconduct during a Senate hearing.

The vote from the Senate Armed Services Committee sets up a full Senate confirmation vote on Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon later this week.

Pete Hegseth needed the vice president's vote to break a Senate tie for his confirmation as Defense secretary. Kelly and Gallego of Arizona voted no.

The Senate Armed Forces Committee held a confirmation hearing Tuesday for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for defense secretary. The former Fox News host faced harsh questioning from Democrats.

A cloud of controversy has hung over Hegseth, but he now appears to be on track to be confirmed as Trump's defense secretary.

The Senate voted 51-50 on Friday night to confirm Hegseth, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.