Former FOX personality Pete Hegseth has been chosen by President-elect Trump as Secretary of Defense.
"I am honored to announce that I have nominated Pete Hegseth to serve in my Cabinet," Trump stated. "Pete has spent his entire life as a Warrior for the Troops and for the Country. Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First."
Hegseth’s final day at FOX, where he co-hosted "FOX & Friends Weekend," was Tuesday. Hegseth, a father of seven and Tennessee resident, joined FOX News as a contributor in 2014. He began co-hosting regularly in 2016 and officially took the role in 2017.
"Pete Hegseth has been an exceptional host on ‘FOX & Friends,’" a FOX News Media spokesperson commented. "His insights on the military resonated deeply with our viewers, making the program the success it is today. We wish him all the best in Washington."
An Army National Guard veteran, Hegseth served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay. Since 2019, he has hosted FOX Nation’s "Patriot Awards," honoring first responders and military heroes. This year, however, he will not be hosting the event on Dec. 5.
Hegseth has also hosted popular FOX Nation specials like "Poison Ivy" and "The Miseducation of America." His recent book, "War on Warriors," quickly became a bestseller, selling 150,000 copies and reaching No. 1 on The New York Times list.
Despite his lack of senior military experience, Hegseth’s nomination aligns with his advocacy for veterans. He previously served as CEO of Concerned Veterans for America, an advocacy group, and has been awarded two Bronze Stars.
Trump emphasized Hegseth’s dedication, saying, "Nobody fights harder for the Troops. With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice." He added, "Pete will be a courageous champion of our ‘Peace through Strength’ policy."
A Princeton and Harvard graduate, Hegseth began his military career in the National Guard. He’s been a vocal critic of recent military diversity efforts, arguing they complicate combat roles. "It hasn’t made us more effective," he remarked.
After Trump’s 2016 win, Hegseth was considered for the Department of Veterans Affairs. In 2012, he also ran briefly against Democrat Amy Klobuchar in Minnesota.
Senator Tommy Tuberville reacted cautiously, saying, "Really? I’d have to think about it." Senator John Hoeven and Representative Mike Waltz, however, were supportive. "The Pentagon needs real reform, and Pete has the grit to make it happen," Waltz said.
Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced opposition, labeling Hegseth as unqualified. "A Fox & Friends weekend co-host is not qualified to be the Secretary of Defense," she wrote on X. "Trump’s pick will make us less safe."
During Trump's first term, five men served as Secretary of Defense, either resigning, being fired, or acting temporarily. Hegseth is set to be a new face in this role, with reactions divided on his nomination.