Senate Majority John Thune (R-S.D.) has set up a vote to confirm former Fox News host and Army veteran Pete Hegseth to become the next secretary of defense under President Donald Trump.
Washington, D.C. — Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has announced that a vote will be held this week to confirm
Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and U.S. Army veteran, as the next Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump.
Hegseth, a vocal advocate for military and veterans’ issues, is expected to face scrutiny over his past public statements and media career.
However, supporters of the nomination praise his military background and leadership
experience, seeing him as a strong candidate to lead the Pentagon during a time of global uncertainty.
“Pete Hegseth has demonstrated unwavering commitment to our nation’s security,
both on the battlefield and in the public arena,” said Thune in a statement.
“His leadership qualities, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges facing our military, make him the right choice for this critical role.”
Hegseth, a former National Guard officer, is known for his outspoken views on military readiness, foreign policy, and veterans’ affairs.
During his tenure at Fox News, he frequently addressed issues impacting the military and national defense, gaining a substantial following among conservative viewers.
While the confirmation vote is expected to pass along party lines, some Democrats have raised concerns about
Hegseth’s previous comments regarding veterans’ benefits and his approach to military strategy.
Democratic leaders are expected to voice opposition during the confirmation hearing.
If confirmed, Hegseth would replace the outgoing Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, who was removed from the position in late 2020.
The vote is set for later this week, with the outcome expected to come down to the party’s final push on Capitol Hill.
