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Following President-Elect Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary, lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle are expressing both support and concerns over his qualifications.
Before you read: Pete Hegseth is a combat veteran and Fox News host known for his outspoken views and support of President Trump’s policies. Hegseth served as a captain in the Army National Guard, where he completed tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantánamo Bay, earning commendations for his service, including the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge. Following his military service, Hegseth took on leadership roles in veteran-focused advocacy groups, including as the executive director of Vets For Freedom and the CEO of Concerned Veterans for America, a group funded by the Koch brothers that advocates for privatized veterans’ healthcare. In recent years, Hegseth has been a prominent media personality on Fox News, where he has used his platform to promote a strong nationalist perspective, often challenging conventional military policies, especially those related to diversity and inclusion within the armed forces.
Reactions from lawmakers:
Those in opposition: Those against the nomination of Pete Hegseth have voiced strong reservations, questioning both his qualifications and his potential impact on the military’s “apolitical” tradition. Former national security adviser John Bolton characterized Hegseth’s selection as “a loyalty choice.” Congressman Pat Ryan, an Army veteran, echoed these worries, calling Hegseth “not a serious person and a serious pick” for such an important role. Paul Rieckhoff, founder of Independent Veterans of America, went further, describing Hegseth as “undoubtedly the least qualified nominee for SecDef in American history” and warning, “Brace yourself, America.”
Those in support: Supporters of Pete Hegseth’s nomination as Secretary of Defense argue that his military experience and alignment with conservative values make him a fitting choice for the role. House Speaker Mike Johnson described Hegseth as a “great choice” because of his “America First” approach. Congressman Ryan Zinke, a former Trump Cabinet official, said that Hegseth’s military background is an asset, adding, “He understands it from a soldier’s point of view.” He also suggested that Hegseth would not hesitate to “stand up against the president” in cases of unlawful orders.
