On November 15, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced on the evening of November 12 that he would nominate Pete Hegseth as the US Secretary of Defense. Hegseth, a co-host of “Fox & Friends Weekend,” previously served in Afghanistan and Iraq, earning a Combat Infantryman Badge. During his time at Fox News, he developed a friendship with Trump who frequently appeared on the program.
As the US is deeply involved in the conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and facing challenges from China in the Indo-Pacific region, there is significant interest in the views of the nominee for Secretary of Defense on these critical issues.
If confirmed by the Senate, Hegseth will oversee the largest federal government department with a budget of $850 billion and managing nearly 3 million civilian and military personnel deployed worldwide.
Experts in US politics such as Mark Shanahan from the University of Surrey and Mark Cancian from the Center for Strategic and International Studies have highlighted Trump’s admiration for Hegseth’s charisma and loyalty to him as reasons for his nomination.
Hegseth, a veteran of the Army National Guard, lacks the typical experience of retired generals or senior national security officials, making Trump’s choice unusual. However, his public stance on China, particularly his strong views against the Chinese Communist Party’s military ambitions, has garnered attention.
In various media appearances, Hegseth has voiced concerns about China’s intentions to dominate Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, which produces a substantial portion of advanced global chips. He has warned that China is building a military force specifically aimed at defeating the US to achieve its global ambitions.
If confirmed, Hegseth will lead the Pentagon amid US involvement in Ukraine, the Middle East, and concerns over China’s growing influence. His tough stance on China and critique of Pentagon policies have drawn both support and criticism from Republican and Democratic lawmakers.
Hegseth’s nomination has received mixed reactions within the Republican Party, with some senators like Thom Tillis finding it intriguing and others like Senator Tommy Tuberville reserving judgment. Incoming National Security Advisor, Welz, commended Hegseth for his courage to bring real reform to the Pentagon, while top Democratic lawmaker, Adam Smith, believes the role should not be entry-level.
Senator Elizabeth Warren expressed her concern on social media, stating that Hegseth’s appointment would make the country less secure and must be rejected. This nomination has sparked intense debate across the political spectrum, highlighting the charged political climate surrounding national defense and security.