Trump Names Fox News Host Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary Pick, Sparking Mixed Reactions
WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his selection of Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and military veteran, to serve as defense secretary. Hegseth, a former Army National Guard officer known for his “America First” stance, was praised by Trump as a figure of “toughness” and “patriotism.”
“With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice — Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down,” Trump said in a statement. The president-elect’s decision marks a significant shift in his second-term administration’s approach, drawing from media personalities and allies known for their alignment with his policies.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., voiced his support, calling Hegseth a “great choice” for the role. Johnson commended Hegseth’s military service and anticipated he would bring a “reform-minded” approach to the Pentagon, though he did not specify which areas may need restructuring.
However, the selection has not been without its critics. Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, expressed reservations, noting Hegseth’s limited experience in Department of Defense (DoD) policy. “I confess, I did not know who Pete Hegseth was until about 20 minutes ago,” Smith said. “The lack of experience is concerning,” he added, highlighting the Pentagon’s role as the world’s largest bureaucracy and emphasizing the potential challenges Hegseth might face leading such a vast organization.
Smith’s concerns echo past controversies in Trump’s first term regarding the stability of the Pentagon’s leadership. Trump initially appointed retired Marine Gen. James Mattis, whose tenure ended in 2018 after policy disagreements over U.S. alliances and global military strategy. Mattis’ resignation letter hinted at fundamental differences in their approach, particularly in fostering international alliances. In 2020, Trump dismissed Mark Esper, who succeeded Mattis, after they clashed over the use of military forces during racial justice protests following George Floyd’s death.
Trump’s announcement of Hegseth is part of a broader unveiling of his second-term administration lineup. Earlier this week, Trump revealed his intent to nominate former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe as CIA director, Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., as U.N. ambassador, and Lee Zeldin, a former New York Republican congressman, to head the Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, former acting ICE director Tom Homan was named as the new “border czar,” underscoring Trump’s commitment to a hardline stance on immigration.
These selections indicate Trump’s intention to surround himself with loyalists and ideologically aligned officials for his upcoming administration. Trump’s appointments have so far included figures well-known in conservative circles but not traditionally associated with high-level federal policy or defense management experience.
As Hegseth prepares for a likely Senate confirmation hearing, his background in veteran advocacy and commentary on military matters will likely come under scrutiny. Observers anticipate a contentious confirmation process, as both supporters and critics evaluate his readiness to lead one of the most complex government institutions during an era of significant geopolitical tension.
