Trump's defense pick might change who can fight in military combat roles
A fresh discussion about gender-based military service starts with new defense secretary nomination. Former media personalityʼs past statements show he wants to change current combat unit policies
In a move that re-opens old debates Pete Hegseth‚ the ex-Fox News figure picked by president-elect Trump for defense secretary brings his strong views about military service to the Pentagon
The nomination puts focus on combat roles policy thatʼs been active since 15ʼ – allowing both men and women to serve in front-line positions (which changed decades-old rules about service
Hegseth has shown clear opinions through his writing and tv appearances: he thinks combat units should be men-only. His book discusses this view in-depth; making his position well-known to military-policy watchers
If the Senate confirms his role‚ Hegseth could try changing current Pentagon rules that let anyone qualify for combat jobs based on ability not gender. This would affect thousands of service members – both current and future ones. The defense departments decade-old policy might face its biggest test yet: as the nominee has power to shape how different groups serve their country
The debate touches core questions about military effectiveness; where some say unit cohesion matters most while others point to successful mixed-gender teams already working in high-stress combat zones
