McConnell opposes Hegseth on final confirmation vote

Former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.), who stepped down from the leadership at the end of last year, cast a surprise vote Friday night against Pete Hegseth, President Trump’s controversial nominee to head the Department of Defense.

McConnell’s vote came as a surprise after he voted Thursday night to advance Hegseth’s nomination to a final vote.

The veteran Kentucky lawmaker played his cards close to the vest and didn’t say anything as he walked into the chamber.

Asked by reporters whether he would support Trump’s pick to lead the Pentagon, he only...