Trump’s surprise Defense pick: Republican senators and Pentagon react to Fox host Pete Hegseth

President-elect Donald Trump’s surprising choice of Pete Hegseth as secretary of defense has left some Republican senators questioning his qualifications while others express strong support. 

Hegseth, a former Army National Guard captain with deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantánamo Bay, is best known for his role as a Fox News host on 'Fox & Friends Weekend'. Trump announced the nomination on Tuesday, describing Hegseth as “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First.”

However, Hegseth’s lack of senior defense experience raised eyebrows within the GOP. “Wow,” remarked Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. “I’m just surprised, because the names that I’ve heard for secretary of defense have not included him.” 

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., added, “Who? I don’t know Pete. I just don’t know anything about him.” Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., also admitted he hadn’t expected Hegseth’s name to emerge but acknowledged Trump’s penchant for choosing “out of left field” candidates. 

Despite these initial reactions, some Republicans firmly support Hegseth’s nomination. 

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., praised Hegseth as a “great choice,” adding, “He’s got experience, and I think he’ll be reform-minded in the areas that need reform.” 

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, was optimistic about Hegseth’s potential as defense secretary, stating, “I think he is going to be a very strong secretary of defense.” Sen. Ted Budd, R-N.C., commended Hegseth as “an impressive individual” and predicted a smooth confirmation process.

Trump’s decision to nominate a Fox News host and veteran rather than an established national security figure has sparked concern among Washington insiders and defense officials. 

Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted, “I think Trump was tired of fighting with his secretaries of defense and picked one who would be loyal to him.” 

Some military officials echoed these sentiments, expressing doubts about Hegseth’s ability to handle the massive responsibilities associated with the Pentagon, including its $800 billion budget and 1.3 million active-duty personnel.

A staunch conservative, Hegseth has voiced opposition to “woke” policies within the military and has questioned the integration of women in combat roles, arguing that “complication in combat means casualties are worse.” 

Trump has lauded Hegseth’s commitment to “America First” policies, saying, “With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice — Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down.” 

Hegseth left his position at Fox News on the day of Trump’s announcement, marking a new chapter for the TV personality as he prepares for a likely confirmation process where his conservative views, military background, and lack of high-level defense experience will be closely examined by the Senate.