Trump appoints Fox News host Pete Hegseth as U.S. defence secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has selected Pete Hegseth, the co-host of ‘Fox & Friends’, and a military veteran, as his choice for defence secretary.
Mr Hegseth’s selection marks an unconventional choice for the position, as his background lies more in media than traditional military leadership roles.
Known for his outspoken support of Mr Trump throughout his first term, Mr Hegseth has been an ardent defender of the president’s policies, including his interactions with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his ‘America First’ agenda, which calls for reducing U.S. military presence abroad.
Mr Trump, in a statement, praised Mr Hegseth’s military experience and commitment to veterans, saying, “Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in ‘America First’. With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice our military will be great again, and America will never back down.”
A veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, Mr Hegseth was awarded the Bronze Star and is well-versed in military matters.
His transition from combat veteran to media personality began in 2014 when he joined Fox News as a contributor.
Since then, he has become one of the network’s most recognisable faces, co-hosting ‘Fox & Friends’ and leading the network’s New Year’s Eve coverage.
In addition to his TV career, Mr Hegseth authored the book ‘In the Arena’, which critiques what he sees as the left-wing betrayal of America’s warriors.
The book highlights Mr Hegseth’s belief in the importance of restoring a meritocratic, accountable military, values that resonate with Mr Trump’s vision for the future of U.S. defence.
Mr Hegseth, a decorated former officer with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, will now find himself tasked with leading the Pentagon and overseeing the nation’s 1.3 million active-duty troops.
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