WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) - Incoming President Donald Trump's pick to lead the nation's military was in the hot seat on Capitol Hill. Senators grilled veteran and former Fox News host Pete Hegseth with questions about his background.  They will decide if his nomination for defense secretary moves forward. Early signs indicated Republicans are ready to back him, but Democrats made clear they believe Hegseth’s lack of experience and past statements about women, in particular, disqualify him. "Lawful orders will not be based on politics they will be based on readiness accountability, standards and lethality,” said Hegseth. He appeared to win over Republicans at his long-awaited confirmation hearing for defense secretary. "I love your attitude. You've got to be motivated,” said Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.). The compliments were short lived. "You've denigrated active-duty service members,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). Democrats on the Senate Armed Services committee pressed the combat veteran over his past statements. Hegseth previously argued women do not belong in combat. “We have hundreds, hundreds of women who are currently in the infantry,” said Gillibrand. Hegseth was blasted over accusations of sexual assault, infidelity and drinking on the job. "One of your colleagues said you go drunk at an event at a bar,” said Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.). Hegseth insists the claims are a smear and has agreed to give up alcohol if confirmed. Hegseth is just the first of many Trump cabinet picks appearing before senators this week.