Trump nominates Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his choice for Secretary of Defense.

Trump Picks Fox News Host Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary.

US President-elect Donald Trump has selected Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host, military veteran, and author, as his nominee for Secretary of Defense. Hegseth, 44, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, will take on the responsibility of overseeing the world's most powerful military in his first official political role.

In a statement announcing his choice on Tuesday, Trump praised Hegseth as "tough, smart, and a true believer in America First," signaling his confidence in the former soldier's ability to lead the Pentagon. 

The announcement came on the same day Trump revealed another political outsider, billionaire Elon Musk, as his pick for a government cost-cutting role. Hegseth's nomination is part of a series of key security appointments that followed Trump's victory in the recent presidential election, including the selection of John Ratcliffe to head the CIA.

If confirmed by the Senate, Hegseth will assume control of the Department of Defense at a critical time. Among the pressing issues he may face are decisions regarding military assistance to Israel during its ongoing conflict with Gaza, as well as continued support for Ukraine amid Russia's invasion. Trump has made it clear he wants the US to scale back its involvement in foreign conflicts, criticizing the Biden administration's funding for Ukraine.

In addition to Hegseth, Trump has tapped South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem for a prominent position as Homeland Security Secretary and military veteran Michael Waltz as National Security Advisor. Sources also suggest that Senator Marco Rubio is under consideration for Secretary of State, although this has not been confirmed.

The Senate, now controlled by Republicans, is set to vote on a new leader on Wednesday—the same day Trump is scheduled to meet outgoing President Joe Biden for the traditional transition of power.

Who Is Pete Hegseth?

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hegseth is an Ivy League-educated conservative commentator. Over the years, he has made a name for himself as a vocal advocate for military and veterans' issues, most notably through his work on Fox News. Hegseth, who resides in Tennessee with his wife and seven children, concluded his tenure with the network on Tuesday.

A strong proponent of military reform, Hegseth has been outspoken about what he perceives as "woke" policies in the armed forces. He has criticized the emphasis on diversity and inclusion within the military, calling the phrase "our diversity is our strength" one of the "dumbest" ideas in the service. In interviews, Hegseth has called for the removal of senior military leaders who he believes are prioritizing progressive policies over combat readiness.

In his book, *The War on Warrior*, Hegseth explores what he views as the left-wing betrayal of American warriors and advocates for a return to military meritocracy, lethality, and excellence. Trump has highlighted Hegseth's military experience and elite educational background at Princeton and Harvard as key qualifications for the role.

Reactions to the nomination

Hegseth's nomination has been met with mixed reactions. Many Republicans have expressed support for his selection. National security adviser nominee Michael Waltz praised Hegseth for his "grit" and ability to drive "real reform" at the Pentagon. However, some Republican figures have offered more cautious responses. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina called the pick "interesting," while Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama said he would need to "think" more about the choice.

Democrats have been more critical. Representative Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, argued that the position of Secretary of Defense "should not be an entry-level job." Senator Elizabeth Warren also opposed the nomination, claiming that Hegseth, as a Fox News host, was unqualified for such a vital national security role. 

With Hegseth's nomination requiring Senate approval, it remains to be seen how the confirmation process will unfold, especially with some senators, including Warren, calling for a rejection of his appointment.