On November 12, Trump announced that he would nominate television host Pete Hegseth as the new U.S. Secretary of Defense. (New York Post) called it a stunning choice. (Political Report) also stated that Trump's move was unexpected. Trump said, "I am honored to announce that I have nominated Pete Hegseth as my cabinet member to serve as Secretary of Defense. Pete has been a fighter for the military and the country his whole life. Pete is strong, smart, and a loyal believer in 'America First.'" He also said, "Pete graduated from Princeton University and holds a graduate degree from Harvard University. He is an Army combat veteran who has served in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Due to his performance on the battlefield, he was awarded two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantry Badge." Trump further stated, "Pete has been a host on Fox News for 8 years, where he used this platform to fight for our military and veterans." CNN pointed out that Hegseth has long served in the military and has served in Afghanistan and Iraq. Trump's advisors told CNN that during Trump's presidency and after leaving office, Hegseth also served as an informal advisor to him. They said that although Hegseth was considered for multiple positions in Trump's first administration, he ultimately was excluded.
