Trump Nominates Untested Fox News Host as Defense Secretary, Leaving Washington in Bewilderment

Washington D.C - President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Fox News host Pete Hegseth to serve as his defense secretary, sparking widespread concern and bewilderment among lawmakers and military officials.

Hegseth, a 44-year-old Army National Guard captain, is best known for co-hosting Fox News Channel's "Fox & Friends Weekend" and appears on Trump's show regularly. While some Republican lawmakers described Hegseth as "tongue-lashed" and " untested," others praised his combat experience.

Trump nominated Hegseth over established national security heavy-hitters, including the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg. Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA) called Hegseth's lack of senior national security experience a reason for concern, saying he was not a serious enough policymaker to do the job.

Hegseth has been vocal about his conservative views on issues such as "woke" programs promoting equity and inclusion in the military, women in combat roles, and pardoning service members charged with war crimes. Some have expressed worries that Hegseth's commitment to these causes may hinder effective decision-making at the Pentagon.

"We've had 16 secretaries of defense since World War II, all of whom were experienced national security professionals," said Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC). "I don't know enough about this guy to give him my stamp of approval."

President-elect Trump defended Hegseth, saying he is a "tough, smart and a true believer in America First" who will make the military more lethal.

While some Republicans, including Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND), expressed interest in supporting Hegseth's nomination, others warned that his appointment could lead to sweeping changes at the Pentagon.

"Hegseth brings a lot to the table," said House Speaker Mike Johnson, "but reforming areas that need it will be a delicate balancing act."

The Defense Department has a budget exceeding $800 billion and employs over 1.3 million active-duty troops and another 1.4 million in the National Guard and Reserve. Concerns among military officials and lawmakers are growing about whether Hegseth, who is largely unfamiliar with Pentagon operations, will be able to manage the complex department.

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

If confirmed, Hegseth's appointment is expected to dominate debate on the Senate floor before it votes on his nomination.