WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump surprised many in the defense community by announcing Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his nominee for Secretary of Defense, selecting a candidate who lacks significant experience in global military affairs. Hegseth, an Army National Guard captain recognized in conservative circles for co-hosting “Fox & Friends Weekend,” was chosen over several seasoned national security experts, raising eyebrows in Washington.
Responses to Hegseth’s nomination were mixed among Republican lawmakers. Some acknowledged his combat background as beneficial, with a few describing him as “tremendously capable.” His candidacy signals potential major shifts within the military, especially as he shares Trump’s stark opposition to “woke” initiatives aimed at promoting equity and inclusion. Hegseth has also raised concerns regarding women in combat roles and has advocated for the pardoning of military personnel accused of war crimes.
During a rally in Las Vegas, Trump urged attendees to support Hegseth’s book, affirming a commitment to eradicate “woke” elements from the military quickly if he assumed office. Hegseth, 44, a firm supporter of Trump’s “America First” agenda, has championed increasing the military’s lethality. He expressed in a podcast that integrating women into combat positions complicates military operations, potentially leading to higher casualties.
While Trump praised Hegseth as “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First,” critics highlighted his lack of substantive experience. Some observers suggested he might be merely a titular leader at the Pentagon, with Trump running operations behind the scenes. Various names had been circulated as potential candidates for defense secretary, including Rep. Mike Rogers from Alabama, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, and Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa.
Rep. Adam Smith of Washington raised concerns about Hegseth’s qualifications, questioning whether he possesses the necessary skills to effectively manage the Defense Department. Senior national security expert Mark Cancian noted that Hegseth’s limited experience could complicate his Senate confirmation process, suggesting that Trump’s past struggles with Defense Secretaries influenced this unconventional choice.
Military officials expressed surprise at the nomination. An anonymous senior officer voiced apprehensions about Hegseth’s capability to oversee a massive department with a budget exceeding $800 billion, which encompasses about 1.3 million active-duty personnel and an additional 1.4 million in the National Guard, Reserves, and civilian roles globally.
If confirmed, Hegseth will tackle a multitude of global challenges, from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine to the growing partnerships between Russia and North Korea and escalating competition with China. He’ll also need to manage the urgent task of modernizing U.S. missile and nuclear defenses while ensuring the defense industry adequately addresses the nation’s demands for advanced weaponry.
Smith emphasized the importance of broader skill sets for the Pentagon’s leadership, asking what specific plans Hegseth would develop to address these pressing issues and how he would overcome his inexperience. Many critical questions remain about his ability to effectively perform the duties required of a Secretary of Defense.
Even within the Republican Senate, reactions to Hegseth’s nomination were reserved. Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina called the choice “interesting,” while Indiana’s Todd Young, a Marine Corps veteran, expressed curiosity about Hegseth’s vision. North Dakota’s Senator John Hoeven noted that Trump’s close relationship with Hegseth likely influenced the decision.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson remarked on Hegseth’s potential contributions, suggesting he would head reforms in areas needing change. Hegseth has served as a Fox News contributor since 2014 and is known for his book “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free.”
In a statement, Trump asserted that Hegseth’s leadership would send a clear message to adversaries, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the military and advancing a “Peace through Strength” strategy, ensuring “America will Never Back Down.”