Tillis calls Hegseth confirmation vote his 'biggest regret'

Tillis wrote that he chose not to be a "lone voice in the wilderness" and acknowledged that other Republicans similarly went along with "ridiculous" demands from the Trump team, fearing political repercussions. He pushed the confirmation vote late on January 24, 2025, after speaking with White House officials, Hegseth's colleagues, and the nominee himself. Ultimately, Tillis stated he could not corroborate the most serious allegations against the former Fox News host and sided with his Republican colleagues.

At the time of the vote, Tillis claimed he had conducted his "due diligence" and asked Hegseth "tough questions." He issued a statement in January 2025 supporting Hegseth's confirmation, citing his perspective as a veteran and his passion for modernizing the military. Tillis also mentioned regretting his vote to confirm Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing the "havoc" caused by Kennedy's tenure.