Pete Hegseth's contentious path to defence secretary role
Pete Hegseth, a former corporal and morning television host, is set to become the new Secretary of Defence. His nomination, despite his lack of political experience, has received support from the U.S. Senate. "The Economist" highlights the controversies surrounding this nomination.
Pete Hegseth, a former corporal and morning television host, is close to assuming the position of Secretary of Defence. His nomination passed the final procedural vote in the U.S. Senate, meaning it could be confirmed as early as Friday. "The Economist" emphasizes that Hegseth lacks political experience.
Controversies surrounding the nomination
On Thursday, the Senate, aided by Republican votes, decided to proceed with a full vote on Hegseth's nomination. He was supported by 51 senators, despite two Republican senators opposing his nomination due to scandals discussed during Hegseth's hearings by the Senate Armed Services Committee.
"A look at the responsibilities Donald Trump is giving to Pete Hegseth, a former platoon leader," stated "The Economist." The annual budget of the U.S. Department of Defence exceeds $800 million (CAD 1.1 trillion), making it larger than the GDP of many countries, such as Taiwan or Belgium.
Challenges for the new secretary
The Pentagon is the largest fuel purchaser in the U.S., possesses the largest fleet, and employs approximately 700,000 civilians. It also oversees the National Security Agency and the National Reconnaissance Office. The Secretary of Defence is sixth in the presidential line of succession.
"So vast is the [DoD] and so multifarious are its missions (...) that it dwarfs most institutions on Earth," wrote Ash Carter, former U.S. Secretary of Defence. Although the Secretary of Defence does not decide on the use of nuclear weapons, their role in crisis situations is crucial.
Reactions to the nomination
During Hegseth's Senate hearing, issues concerning scandals, alcohol problems, and allegations of sexual harassment were discussed. Senator Lisa Murkowski issued a statement explaining that she does not support this candidate because his past behaviour "starkly contrasts" the expectations of the Secretary of Defence.
The former National Guard soldier, who promised senators he would not consume alcohol, "demonstrated a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces. These behaviours starkly contrast the values and discipline expected of servicemembers," the statement from Murkowski, quoted by ABC News, declared.
"The Economist" notes that defence secretaries in Trump's first administration tried to thwart his dangerous ideas, but Hegseth is unlikely to have such an approach.
