WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth is scheduled to make his case to the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday as a candidate for the next secretary of defense. He has engaged in numerous discussions with lawmakers in recent weeks as they posed questions regarding his character and perspectives on various military matters. Hegseth, an author of several books and former Fox News Channel host, has found himself defending his past public statements, including those in his latest book, “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free.” His diverse opinions offer a glimpse into his potential approach to the top Pentagon position if confirmed. While he has at times clarified that he has been misinterpreted, he has also made efforts to temper his previous viewpoints on contentious issues.
A closer look at Hegseth’s own statements:
On the state of the US military: A former Army major and combat veteran in Iraq and Afghanistan, 44-year-old Hegseth believes that military standards have diminished and that initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion have alienated white men. In his recent book, he criticizes “woke” generals and leaders of service academies for weakening the military and making it “effeminate” through DEI efforts. Hegseth asserts that the next commander in chief must enact significant changes, emphasizing the importance of lethality, meritocracy, and readiness over social justice approaches. He has pledged to dismiss generals involved in “woke” programs.
On women in combat: Despite previously stating his opposition to women in combat roles, Hegseth has adjusted his stance following his nomination. While he initially expressed reservations about women serving in combat, he now affirms that women belong in the military but not in certain roles like special operations, artillery, infantry, and armor units. He recognizes women’s contributions in support roles during conflict but maintains that they may not meet the physical standards required in combat positions.
On infidelity and sexual assault allegations: Hegseth has faced allegations of sexual assault from an encounter at a California conference in 2017, which he has denied, claiming it was consensual. No charges were filed, and he asserts that a settlement was paid to prevent a baseless lawsuit. Hegseth has also admitted to instances of infidelity, including the California incident, while navigating a personal situation.
Following a divorce from his second wife, he had a child with Jennifer Rauchet, who is now his current wife. He explained to Kelly that engaging in activities with someone other than his wife in a hotel room was unacceptable to him. He emphasized that he settled matters to protect his wife, family, and job, acknowledging that being labeled a “serial cheater” was fair, but asserting that his transformation was influenced by Jen and his faith in Jesus Christ.
Regarding concerns about his drinking habits, Hegseth refuted claims of having a drinking issue and publicly stated his commitment not to consume alcohol while serving as defense secretary. He likened this decision to complying with the Pentagon’s directive prohibiting troops from drinking during deployment. While acknowledging the common practice of service members having drinks upon returning from war, he adamantly denied having a drinking problem.
On the topic of extremism in the military, Hegseth criticized the Pentagon’s response to the issue, dismissing it as exaggerated and unfounded. He expressed disapproval towards military efforts to eliminate individuals categorized as white supremacists and violent extremists, referring to the problem as fabricated and accused the military leadership of driving dedicated patriots away.
Hegseth was removed from duty with the Washington National Guard during President Biden’s inauguration due to suspicions raised by a fellow service member about a tattoo on Hegseth’s bicep associated with white supremacist groups, despite Hegseth attributing the concern to a Christian cross tattoo on his chest.
In response to his nomination by President Trump for a leadership position, Hegseth highlighted the importance of having a defense secretary with combat experience, implying that such a background was lacking in previous appointments. Trump reportedly emphasized the need for a leader who prioritizes the welfare of warfighters and understands the realities of combat. Notably, Hegseth’s sentiments were juxtaposed with the combat experiences of former Defense Secretaries Jim Mattis and Lloyd Austin, who both received prestigious military accolades for their service in conflict zones. Austin emphasized the importance of comprehending both ground-level operations and broader strategic considerations in overseeing military endeavors.
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