Former Fox News host and Army National Guard veteran, Pete Hegseth, has been confirmed as the US Defence Secretary after a narrow 51-50 Senate vote.
Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote, marking only the second time in history a vice president has decided a cabinet confirmation.
Hegseth’s nomination, championed by former President Donald Trump, faced opposition from three Republican senators—Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Mitch McConnell—who joined Democrats in raising concerns over his qualifications and controversial past.
Critics, including Senator Chris Murphy, described Hegseth as “dangerously and woefully unqualified,” citing past allegations of misconduct and divisive comments about women in military roles.
Supporters, however, like Senate Majority Leader John Thune, praised his military experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, arguing it would bring a “warrior’s perspective” to the Pentagon.
Hegseth takes on the role amid a Trump administration focus on border security, with key foreign policy positions, such as on Ukraine and China, yet unclear.
