Pete Hegseth, a 44-year-old highly decorated Army National Guard veteran and former Fox News host and media personality, has been nominated by President elect Donald Trump to serve as the next US Secretary of Defense.
The Secretary of Defense is a very prestigious and crucial position. The person dedicated to this role will be responsible for overseeing the US armed forces. He will also be considered second in authority only after the President of the United States, who is the Commander in Chief.
Hegseth is seen by many supporters as perfect for the role considering his military past. The former veteran was deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge and two Bronze Stars. He’s also experienced at navigating the public, as he spent many years on Fox News as a host.
Opponents of confirming Hegseth for the position have some concerns, though, which were vocalized during the recent public Senate hearing. One thing that came up was Hegseth’s past management experience leading Veterans for Freedom. According to reports, expenses exceeded revenue during the time Hegseth was managing the organization. Towards the end of his reign, the organization was on the verge of bankruptcy and had to be merged with another group.
Another concern that was brought forward was references in a book written by Hegseth. In the book, Hegseth reportedly questioned whether the Geneva Conventions should be followed in every circumstance.
Finally, concerns were raised about Hegseth’s past and current alcohol use and treatment of women. Some opponents raised concerns that Hegseth has had problems with alcohol abuse, even allegedly drinking at past jobs. Colleagues who worked with Hegseth at Fox News alleged that he did act inappropriately when drinking. Opponents also alleged Hegseth was guilty of past sexual assaults and paying off a woman to not seek a lawsuit against him. Hegseth said these allegations were false, and he was also adamant that he would never drink on the job if confirmed.
This hearing was one of the most controversial in recent history, with protests breaking out mid-hearing. At least three individuals were removed from the hearing.
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