Sen. Tillis Calls Confirmation of Hegseth ‘Biggest Regret of Career’ in New Book

Republican Sen. Tillis reveals his regrets over confirming Pete Hegseth and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in new book, calling it the 'biggest regret of my career.'

Editorial Desk

October 6, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — Republican Senator Thom Tillis has revealed in a new book that his vote to confirm Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was the ‘biggest regret of my career.’ The North Carolina senator also expressed regret over supporting Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services secretary.

In his upcoming book, titled “How to Lose Friends and Antagonize Presidents,” Tillis reflects on his decisions during President Donald Trump’s administration. He admitted he had reservations about Hegseth’s management style and treatment of women but felt pressured to support the nominee. Tillis also criticized Trump’s Cabinet picks, including Tulsi Gabbard and Kristi Noem.

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Tillis, who announced he would not seek re-election in 2026, said he reached a breaking point over Trump’s tax and spending cuts. He warned of a potential ‘bloodbath’ for Republicans in the midterms and urged colleagues to push back against Trump’s policies. His book is set for release Tuesday.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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