Trump's Pentagon Pick: Loyalty Over Experience

The $750 billion Pentagon budget now has a new steward. Pete Hegseth's confirmation as Defense Secretary completes Donald Trump's installation of MAGA loyalists across America's military establishment, marking a dramatic shift from traditional defense leadership.

From Fox News to the Five-Sided Building

Hegseth brings an unconventional resume to the world's most powerful military position. While he served as an Army National Guard officer in Iraq and Afghanistan, his real claim to fame came from eight years as a Fox News host, where he championed Trump's agenda and criticized military interventionism.

His path to confirmation wasn't smooth. Senate hearings revealed past issues with alcohol and personal conduct, but Republican unity ultimately prevailed. Trump praised him as "the right person to complete our mission of making America great again."

Breaking Pentagon Tradition

Hegseth's appointment represents a sharp departure from Pentagon norms. Unlike previous Defense Secretaries who typically came from senior military ranks or defense industry leadership, he arrives from cable television. More significantly, he brings an explicitly political agenda.

He's been vocal about combating what he calls the "woke military," advocating for cuts to diversity programs and questioning traditional alliance commitments. His criticism of NATO and emphasis on "America First" puts him at odds with the Pentagon's traditional internationalist establishment.

Allies Recalculate

America's partners worldwide are watching Hegseth closely. His past statements about allies paying more for their defense have particular resonance for countries like South Korea, which hosts 28,500 US troops. Cost-sharing negotiations could become more contentious under his leadership.

His skepticism toward Ukraine aid has already rattled European allies. NATO members are bracing for potential policy shifts, wondering if his campaign rhetoric about ending America's "world policeman" role will translate into actual military withdrawals.

The Loyalty Test

Hegseth's confirmation reflects Trump's broader strategy of prioritizing personal loyalty over traditional qualifications. This approach extends beyond the Pentagon to other key national security positions, creating what critics call an "echo chamber" of Trump supporters.

Supporters argue this ensures policy coherence and eliminates the internal resistance that hampered Trump's first term. Critics worry about the erosion of institutional independence and professional military advice.