Trump picks military critic as defense chief, setting up Pentagon leadership shake-up
A former soldier and media figure Pete Hegseth got picked to lead Pentagon under Trump. His stance against current military leadership and NATO allies might change US defense policy direction
In a major-shift announcement‚ Donald Trump selected Pete Hegseth - a Fox News figure and ex-soldier as his defense secretary pick. The 44-year old veteran (who served in hot-spots like Afghanistan Iraq and Guantanamo) could bring big changes to Pentagon leadership
The pick sets up a possible face-off with Air Force leader General C.Q. Brown: Hegseth has questioned Browns qualifications and criticized his views on diversity. Its worth noting that Hegseth left service in 21ʼ after what he describes as being side-lined for his beliefs
Hegsethʼs ideas about military leadership are clear-cut; he wants to remove current Pentagon chiefs. In his book he wrote that lots of top brass needs firing - especially those focused on social-justice policies. His views on international partnerships raise questions too: he thinks NATO countries dont pay their fair share and called European allies self-righteous
His thoughts on global issues are direct:
* China aims to beat USA military
* Russiaʼs Ukraine actions are territory-focused
* NATO needs more money from members
* Pentagon needs new direction
The next president of the United States needs to radically overhaul Pentagon senior leadership to make us ready to defend our nation and defeat our enemies
Trump praised his pick saying: “Pete is tough smart and a true believer in America First“ The nomination needs Senate approval before the planned Jan 20th start-date
