Peter Hegseth, an American television personality, author, and National Guard officer, is the nominee for United States Secretary of Defense in Donald Trump’s second cabinet. He has been a political commentator for Fox News since 2014 and co-host of Fox & Friends Weekend from 2017 to 2024. Hegseth is a staunch conservative and a staunch supporter of Trump, having served as an advisor to him during his first term.
Hegseth is a veteran of the military, having served in Iraq and Afghanistan and earning a Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge. He served as a platoon leader at Guantanamo Bay and has defended the treatment of detainees there. Hegseth is also known for his criticism of “woke” culture and DEI programs within the military. He advocates for returning the military to a “state of readiness” and has vowed to eliminate these programs if he is appointed Secretary of Defense.
Since graduating from Princeton, Hegseth has been active in Republican politics. He served as executive director of Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America. He ran for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota in 2012 but ultimately withdrew from the race.
Hegseth supports many of Trump’s policies, including his hardline stance on Iran and his steadfast support for Israel. He has called for bombing Iran and referred to Israel as “God’s chosen people.”
Hegseth is married to his second wife, Samantha Deering, and has three children with her. He has a daughter with Fox executive producer Jennifer Rauchet.
Hegseth’s nomination as Secretary of Defense has sparked controversy. His critics accuse him of lacking experience and expertise and worry that he will politicize the military. His supporters praise his patriotism and his strong support for the military. Whether Hegseth’s nomination will be confirmed by the Senate remains to be seen.
