Embattled Hegseth gets public show of support from Trump during his 100-days trip
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who is currently under investigation for mishandling sensitive military information, made a public appearance in Michigan on Tuesday alongside President Donald Trump. This show of support from the president comes at a time when Hegseth’s leadership at the Pentagon has come under scrutiny, with calls from Democrats for his resignation.
During a speech at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Trump introduced Hegseth to the Guard members, commending him for doing a “really great job.” In return, Hegseth expressed his gratitude to the president, stating, “Only because the commander in chief invited me. Mr. President, thank you for restoring the warrior ethos inside our formations, for rebuilding our military, reestablishing deterrence around the world, and making Americans proud to wear the uniform.”
Hegseth’s presence on Trump’s trip to celebrate his first 100 days in office was unexpected, as it was not previously announced. The Secretary of Defense’s office declined to provide reasons for his inclusion in the entourage.
Trump, who was set to address a rally in Warren, Michigan, announced that Selfridge Air National Guard Base would receive 21 F-15 fighters to enhance its capabilities in the future. Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer also joined Trump at the base for the event.
A former infantry officer in the U.S. Army National Guard, Hegseth has served in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan, reaching the rank of major before leaving the military. His senior advisor, Sean Parnell, highlighted the accomplishments of the Department of Defense under Hegseth’s leadership, emphasizing the focus on restoring the warrior ethos and rebuilding the military.
However, Hegseth’s tenure has not been without controversy. He faced allegations of financial mismanagement at a veterans nonprofit, as well as accusations of sexual assault and heavy drinking, all of which he denies. Additionally, reports surfaced that Hegseth used a commercial messaging app to share sensitive military information with unauthorized individuals, prompting an investigation by the Pentagon’s Inspector General.
Despite the challenges, Trump expressed confidence in Hegseth’s ability to overcome the turmoil within the department. Several top aides to Hegseth have departed in recent months, including his chief of staff, who transitioned to a part-time advisory role, and three other aides who were fired for alleged leaking.
Hegseth remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing the president’s agenda, recently terminating a Defense Department program aimed at promoting women’s participation in conflict resolution efforts. The program, known as “Women, Peace, and Security,” was signed into law by Trump in 2017 and supported by key Republican lawmakers.
In his decision to end the program, Hegseth cited lack of effectiveness and troop dissatisfaction, calling it a “woke divisive/social justice/Biden initiative.” He accused the Biden administration of undermining the program, which had bipartisan support during the Trump administration.
Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding his leadership, Hegseth continues to defend his actions and advocate for the president’s priorities within the Department of Defense.
