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President-elect Donald Trump has officially nominated Pete Hegseth, a decorated Army veteran and Fox News host, to serve as Secretary of Defense.
The announcement highlights Trump’s focus on bolstering national defense and honoring veterans, with Hegseth standing out for his military credentials and outspoken support for the nation’s troops.
“Pete has spent his entire life as a Warrior for the Troops, and for the Country,” Trump said in a statement on social media. “Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First. With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice – Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down.”
Hegseth’s record as a former Army National Guard major includes tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, earning him two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman’s Badge.
Beyond his military service, Hegseth holds degrees from Princeton and Harvard and has been a vocal advocate for conservative values through his work as a Fox News host and author of the bestseller, The War on Warriors.
Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND) has expressed support and eagerness to learn more about Hegseth’s plans for the role. “We’re looking forward to it,” Hoeven remarked, adding, “I want to get to know him better in that role. But yeah, the nominees so far I think have all been good.”
Trump’s selection of Hegseth aligns with his vision to streamline the Pentagon’s leadership and refocus its priorities. He aims to reshape the Department of Defense by reversing certain policies implemented under the Biden administration, including diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
During Trump’s first term, his defense policy was marked by frequent changes in Pentagon leadership, with multiple individuals cycling through the position, each facing challenges in balancing Trump’s directives with existing policies. With Hegseth’s confirmation, Trump hopes to solidify a consistent, focused leadership within the Pentagon.
Nevertheless, some lawmakers have voiced reservations. Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), a top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, raised concerns about Hegseth’s policymaking experience. “There is reason for concern that this is not a person who is a serious enough policymaker, serious enough policy implementer, to do a successful job,” Smith said.
However, Trump’s Republican allies, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), believe Hegseth’s appointment will bring much-needed reform to the Department of Defense, describing him as “reform-minded in the areas that need reform.”
As Trump’s second administration takes shape, he also announced other key national security appointments. Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe has been nominated to lead the CIA, while Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL), a vocal critic of China, will serve as national security adviser. These appointments signal a robust, America-focused stance, placing experienced military and intelligence voices at the forefront.
If confirmed, Hegseth will assume the role during a period marked by significant global challenges, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East.