This housecleaning will be a signal to the entire world and the American military and everybody else.” — Donald Trump, Aug. 21, 2024 There was genuine surprise at the late Nov. 12 announcement by President-elect Donald Trump that he was tapping Pete Hegseth,

Fox News host Pete Hegseth, a U.S. Army veteran, was tapped by President-elect Trump to serve at the helm of the Department of Defense. Why it matters: The incoming defense secretary is inexperienced in government leadership and touts right-wing views.

In an unconventional move, Donald Trump has picked Pete Hegseth, a FOX News host and commentator, as his secretary of defense. What to know about the Middle Tennessee resident.