Donald Trump’s latest Cabinet pick is turning heads—and sending a clear message about his approach to national defense. On Tuesday, Trump announced that Pete Hegseth, an Army combat veteran and Fox News personality, will take the reins as Secretary of Defense. In his statement, Trump hailed Hegseth as a “Warrior for the Troops” who embodies the America First philosophy that Trump’s administration intends to pursue.
Congratulations to my friend and colleague Pete Hegseth. You have served this great nation’s military and you are a wonderful father, husband to Jen and more… with you we win! pic.twitter.com/JIF1xZ3GTG
— HARRISFAULKNER (@HARRISFAULKNER) November 13, 2024
Hegseth isn’t just another Beltway figure. He’s served on the ground in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan, bringing firsthand experience with military operations in some of the most challenging zones of modern combat. For Trump, it’s this combat-hardened experience, combined with Hegseth’s unflagging patriotism, that makes him an ideal pick for the role.
Trump emphasized that Hegseth believes in “peace through strength,” underscoring his intention to bolster America’s military might in a way that deters adversaries rather than waiting for conflict to spark. In Trump’s words, “With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice – Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down.”
For Hegseth, this appointment marks the culmination of a career that’s blended frontline service with a powerful media presence. He is a Princeton graduate, holds a master’s degree from Harvard, and is a bestselling author of books like The War on Warriors and Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes. His work has repeatedly highlighted the challenges facing veterans and active-duty service members, portraying their stories with an authenticity that has resonated with both readers and television audiences alike.
“He’s got 20 years in service. Afghanistan, Iraq. Two bronze stars. Princeton, Harvard. Yeah, he’s on TV, but so are the rest of us.”
Scott Jennings just cooks them. Carl Bernstein’s face is priceless.
— Bonchie (@bonchieredstate) November 13, 2024
Fox News, where Hegseth has been a mainstay on Fox & Friends and Fox Nation, issued a congratulatory statement celebrating his years with the network. The statement underscored that Hegseth’s insights on military issues struck a powerful chord with viewers, which helped make Fox & Friends one of the top-rated morning programs on cable news. The network made it clear they stand by Hegseth as he moves into this significant role, proud of the impact he’s had and confident he will make waves in Washington.
With Hegseth’s appointment, Trump is reinforcing his commitment to a strong, assertive U.S. defense strategy, while also deepening his administration’s connections to key conservative media allies. For critics, the pick is bound to raise eyebrows given Hegseth’s outspoken personality and close ties to Fox News. But for Trump and his supporters, this is precisely the type of leadership the Department of Defense needs—a man of action who doesn’t back down, and who places America’s interests at the forefront.
The meltdown over Pete Hegseth is amazing. The more mad they are, the better of a pick you know it is.
He’s smart. Combat Veteran. 2 bronze stars. Loves America. Spoke out against wokeness in the military. MAGA
EXCELLENT choice! pic.twitter.com/asnNiaKEnA
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) November 13, 2024
