At his confirmation hearing, the defense-secretary nominee looked like a man who understood that the fix was in.

The 10-nation bloc, known as ASEAN, has been useful for the United States in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific. Many member nations have territorial disputes with China, which has become increasingly assertive in pressing those claims.

Hegseth says he will be a “change agent” and a “warrior” as Republicans demand new and strong leadership at the Pentagon.

Senior congressional correspondent Chad Pergram joins 'America's Newsroom' after Trump's Defense secretary nominee faced explosive questioning from Senate Democrats.