Pete Hegseth Confirmed as US Defence Secretary Amid Controversy
Background
Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News personality and decorated veteran, has been confirmed as the next US defence secretary after a 50-50 vote in the Senate, with Vice-President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.
Divisive Nominee
Hegseth is the most divisive candidate to clinch the US military’s top job, a position that has historically gone to candidates with deep experience running large organisations and who enjoy broad bipartisan support. His leadership will be under intense scrutiny after a bruising confirmation review that raised serious questions about his qualifications, temperament, and views about women in combat.
Confirmation Process
Hegseth’s nomination was rocked by a series of accusations, including one this week by his former sister-in-law, who said he abused his second wife to the extent that she hid in a closet and had a code word to use with friends if she had to be rescued. Hegseth strongly denied the accusations and his wife had previously denied any physical abuse.
Trump’s Support
Trump, whose nominees for FBI and intelligence chief are also under Senate scrutiny, stood staunchly by his pick and put extensive pressure on his fellow Republicans to back the 44-year-old television personality. Suri said the vote demonstrated the extent of Trump’s power at the start of his second term in office.
Controversial Views
Hegseth has criticised diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the military, and, in his latest book, asked whether the top US general has the job because he is black. He also strongly opposed women in combat roles but walked back that stance as he courted support for his confirmation, including from military veterans like Republican senator Joni Ernst.
Confirmation Vote
The confirmation vote was a departure for a position that Republican and Democratic administrations have long sought to ensure was bipartisan. Former president Joe Biden’s defence secretary, Lloyd Austin, was confirmed by a 93-2 vote in 2021, and Jim Mattis, Trump’s first defence secretary in his last administration, was confirmed 98-1 in 2017.
Responsibilities
As defence secretary, Hegseth will lead 1.3 million active-duty service members and the nearly 1 million civilians who work for the US military, which has a nearly US$1 trillion annual budget. He will also be responsible for implementing the Trump administration’s focus on border security and immigration.
Conclusion
Hegseth’s confirmation as US defence secretary marks a significant departure from the traditional bipartisan approach to appointing defence secretaries. His leadership will be closely watched, particularly given the controversy surrounding his nomination and the sensitive nature of the position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Pete Hegseth’s nomination controversial?
A: Hegseth’s nomination was controversial due to his lack of experience in government and military leadership, as well as allegations of domestic violence and criticism of diversity initiatives in the military.
Q: What are Pete Hegseth’s views on women in combat?
A: Hegseth has previously expressed opposition to women in combat roles, but he walked back that stance during his confirmation process.
Q: How did Trump’s administration respond to Hegseth’s nomination?
A: Trump’s administration stood strongly behind Hegseth’s nomination, putting pressure on Republicans to support him and casting aside concerns about his qualifications and personal behavior.
Q: What are Hegseth’s responsibilities as defence secretary?
A: As defence secretary, Hegseth will lead the US military, which has a nearly US$1 trillion annual budget, and will be responsible for implementing the Trump administration’s focus on border security and immigration.