Trump Taps Fox News Host for Pentagon Leadership; Tulsi Gabbard Takes Charge of National Intelligence

President-elect Donald Trump has declared his intention to nominate Pete Hegseth, a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and Fox News weekend host, as Secretary of Defense. This announcement, made Tuesday, has sparked immediate scrutiny, contrasting with Trump’s more conventional Cabinet picks.

In addition to Hegseth, Trump revealed he will nominate Florida Senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State and former Representative Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, completing his national security team.

Hegseth’s background includes military service in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantánamo Bay, earning him two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge. However, critics note his lack of government experience, having previously served as CEO of the veterans’ advocacy group Concerned Veterans for America.

“Pete is tough, smart and a true believer in America First,” Trump stated. He emphasized that with Hegseth leading, America’s military would regain its strength and resolve.

Hegseth has taken firm stances on various contentious issues, including his belief that women should not serve in combat roles. He expressed this opinion during an appearance on a podcast, indicating that it complicates military operations.

His critiques of the Department of Defense’s diversity initiatives under Democratic administrations have resonated with some conservatives. The Heritage Foundation praised him for advocating a return to core military objectives, asserting that current strategies detract from combat readiness.

However, the nomination has met with resistance from some lawmakers. Adam Smith, a Democratic leader on the House Armed Services Committee, raised concerns about Hegseth’s qualifications, noting that the Secretary of Defense role requires extensive experience, particularly given global security challenges.

Even within Republican ranks, skepticism is evident. Senator Tommy Tuberville questioned the selection despite his close ties to Trump, indicating that he needed more time to consider the nomination.

Hegseth’s history includes a failed run for the U.S. Senate in 2012. Recently, he faced controversy regarding a tattoo that led to his removal from a detail guarding Biden’s inauguration, which he attributed to misinterpretations of his beliefs.

In contrast, Rubio’s nomination appears smoother, gaining bipartisan support. Trump expressed confidence in Rubio as a strong advocate for American values. Gabbard, known for her past presidential campaign, has also aligned with Trump, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a bold foreign policy.

Last updated 2:27 p.m., Nov. 13, 2024