Global

Trump Picks Fox News Host Hegseth as Defense Secretary

US President-elect Donald Trump has announced Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host, author, and former military officer, as his pick for defense secretary.

Hegseth, 44, who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, would manage the US Department of Defense, overseeing the world’s largest military force in his first political role. Trump praised Hegseth, calling him “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First” during Tuesday’s announcement. Senator Marco Rubio is reportedly a strong candidate for Secretary of State, although his appointment remains unconfirmed.

If confirmed by the Senate, Hegseth will face immediate challenges, including decisions on military aid to Israel and continued support for Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion.

During the campaign, Trump criticised current spending on Ukraine, expressing a preference for reducing US involvement in foreign conflicts.

Hegseth, born in Minneapolis and an Ivy League graduate, has been a conservative commentator on Fox News, where he has advocated for veterans and military issues.

In his announcement, Trump highlighted Hegseth’s education and military experience, saying, “With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice—our military will be great again.”

He also praised Hegseth’s book The War on Warrior, which criticizes perceived left-wing policies affecting the US military.

Trump’s new appointments are subject to Senate approval, though he has urged Republican senators to allow him to bypass the standard confirmation process for key roles.

With Republicans regaining Senate control, Trump is expected to encounter support for his choices.

On Wednesday, Trump will meet outgoing President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss the transfer of power, following tradition.

Chioma Kalu

Follow us on:

Chioma Kalu

Recent Posts

Trump’s Team Reportedly Drafts List of Pentagon Officers for Dismissal

Trump's team is reportedly preparing a list of Pentagon officers who may face dismissal if…

24 mins ago

Maori MPs Disrupt New Zealand Parliament with Haka Over Controversial Treaty Bill

Maori MPs disrupted New Zealand's parliament with a haka to protest a controversial bill reinterpreting…

27 mins ago

Italy’s President Mattarella Fires Back at Elon Musk Over Migration Comments

President Mattarella has slammed Elon Musk for interfering in Italian politics, urging respect for Italy’s…

29 mins ago

World’s Largest Coral Colony Discovered in Pacific, Offering Glimpse of Hope for Marine Conservation

A massive coral colony, possibly over 300 years old, has been discovered, offering hope for…

1 hour ago

Heightened Security for France-Israel Match After Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Attacked

Paris deployed 4,000 police officers for a high-risk France-Israel football match, ensuring security amid heightened…

1 hour ago

Governor Okpebholo Credits Victory to God, Recalls Encounter With Dead Bat During Electioneering Process

Governor Okpebholo has reflected on election challenges, revealing his reliance on faith and recounting the…

2 hours ago