Washington DC - Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump's nominee for US defense secretary, reportedly paid $50,000 to a woman who accused him of sexual assault in 2017.

Hegseth noted the payment in a written response to questions from Senator Elizabeth Warren posed as part of his vetting and confirmation process, according to the Associated Press.

Back in November, Hegseth's attorney, Timothy Parlatore, confirmed a settlement had been made, though the amount was not previously disclosed.

During confirmation hearings last week, the former Fox News anchor claimed he had been "falsely accused" of raping a woman at a hotel in 2017. He has repeatedly denied responsibility for his alleged acts.

Migration India responds to threat of deportation of its undocumented citizens in US

"More questions than answers. We can't rush his vote and trust him with our national security," Warren posted on X along with an image of Hegseth's reponse.

On top of the rape allegation, Hegseth also faces accusations of alcohol abuse and domestic abuse of his ex-wife.

Despite the concerns, the Senate on Thursday voted mostly along party lines to advance his nomination. The final confirmation vote is expected to take place on Friday.