President-elect Donald Trump has announced Fox News host and military veteran Pete Hegseth as his pick for defense secretary. Hegseth, 44, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, would oversee the U.S. military, marking his first role in government.
In his announcement on Tuesday, Trump praised Hegseth as “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First.” The same day, Trump appointed another outsider, billionaire Elon Musk, to a government cost-cutting role, continuing his trend of unconventional choices.
Following his recent election win, Trump’s administration is beginning to take shape. Alongside Hegseth, Trump named former Congressman John Ratcliffe to head the CIA, with the Senate set to vote on these appointments.
If confirmed by the Senate, Hegseth would enter the Pentagon facing critical decisions, including military support for Israel and Ukraine. Trump’s foreign policy stance focuses on minimizing U.S. involvement in overseas conflicts, contrasting with the Biden administration’s approach to foreign military support.
In other key appointments, Trump selected South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as homeland security secretary and military veteran Michael Waltz as national security advisor. Waltz, a China hawk, will guide Trump on foreign threats, aligning with anticipated secretary of state nominee, Senator Marco Rubio, though Rubio’s role has yet to be confirmed.
With Republicans reclaiming control of the Senate, Trump has requested that the new Senate leadership waive confirmation for certain roles. He is expected to discuss this transition process with outgoing President Joe Biden during a White House visit this week.
Who is Pete Hegseth?
A Minneapolis native and Ivy League graduate, Hegseth, 44, is known for his work on Fox News, where he highlighted issues affecting veterans. Hegseth, who recently left Fox, reportedly persuaded Trump to pardon soldiers accused of war crimes during Trump’s previous term.
Trump cited Hegseth’s education and service in Iraq and Afghanistan as fitting qualifications. His book, The War on Warrior, criticizes what he describes as the “leftwing betrayal” of the military, calling for a return to traditional standards of merit and accountability.
What Are His Views on the Military?
Hegseth has criticized “woke” policies in the military. Recently, he suggested that military leadership focused on diversity policies should be removed, asserting that the force should prioritize combat readiness alone.
In a recent podcast, Hegseth called for a return to “1995” combat standards, questioning diversity initiatives. He specifically criticized Gen. Charles “CQ” Brown Jr., appointed as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by President Biden, for supporting diversity efforts.
Reaction to Hegseth’s Appointment
Republicans have generally supported Hegseth’s nomination, though reactions vary. Senator Thom Tillis called it “interesting,” while Senator Tommy Tuberville noted he’d consider the appointment. Democrat Adam Smith argued the Pentagon is not an entry-level role, and Senator Elizabeth Warren publicly opposed Hegseth, questioning his qualifications and the implications for national safety.
