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OPINION:
When President-elect Donald Trump secured a second and final term, he promised to transform Washington and deconstruct the bureaucratic state that fosters inefficiency and mediocrity.
The nomination of Pete Hegseth to serve as the next secretary of defense does just that.
As a military combat veteran, a strong advocate for combat veterans, and a transformative leader, Mr. Hegseth possesses the skills, vision, and experience needed to guide the Department of Defense through a critical time in our nation’s security landscape.
With tensions throughout Eastern Europe and the Middle East worsening, our country needs a leader who understands the implications military conflict would have on the world.
Having worked alongside Mr. Hegseth, I have seen firsthand the caliber of leadership he brings to any challenge. His ability to rally individuals toward a common goal, his focus on operational excellence, and his unwavering commitment to service make him uniquely qualified for this role. With years of military experience, a deep understanding of the challenges facing our veterans, and a bold vision for the future of the armed forces, Mr. Hegseth has the potential to lead the Department of Defense with clarity, purpose, and resilience.
Mr. Hegseth’s military career provides a strong foundation for his ability to lead the Department of Defense. Mr. Hegseth served as an officer in the U.S. Army, where he was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. As a veteran of both wars, he has firsthand knowledge of the complexities of modern warfare, including the importance of adapting tactics to rapidly changing environments and the significance of maintaining a well-equipped and motivated force.
His leadership experiences in combat zones and as a key strategist demonstrate his ability to make tough decisions in high-stakes situations. As a former infantry officer, Mr. Hegseth has been in the trenches, leading soldiers, navigating difficult terrain, and executing missions under pressure. This hands-on experience equips him with a unique perspective that many civilian leaders at the Pentagon do not have.
One of Mr. Hegseth’s most defining characteristics is his advocacy for combat veterans. After serving in the military, Mr. Hegseth dedicated himself to supporting those who served by championing veterans’ causes. As a prominent voice for veterans, he worked with organizations like the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, advocating for issues such as access to healthcare, mental health services, and the rights of military families.
His passion for veterans is not just a political stance; it’s a core part of his identity. Mr. Hegseth’s extensive work with veterans’ organizations demonstrates his commitment to those who have served. As secretary of defense, this commitment would translate into a genuine and unwavering focus on improving the welfare of our military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Moreover, Mr. Hegseth understands the importance of transitioning from active duty to civilian life and the challenges veterans face when returning home. His leadership in reforming the Department of Veterans Affairs and advocating for policies that streamline veteran care has been exemplary. I worked with Mr. Hegseth at Concerned Veterans for America, where I saw firsthand his genuine desire to ensure veterans received the care and benefits we were promised when we signed up for military service.
Mr. Hegseth’s extensive work advocating for Veterans Administration reform demonstrates his commitment to those who have served. He is committed to ensuring that those who serve our country are treated with the respect and care they deserve, not just during their service but long after they return to civilian life.
Mr. Hegseth’s ability to lead and inspire is one of his most compelling qualities. In addition to his military experience, he is a seasoned media personality and author known for his bold, decisive approach to leadership and ability to communicate effectively. His appearances on Fox News, where he has been a key voice on national security and military affairs, have given him a platform to speak directly to the American public and policymakers alike.
As secretary of defense, Mr. Hegseth would bring a transformative approach to the Pentagon. He has a deep understanding of the evolving security challenges facing the U.S. and a vision for modernizing the military to ensure that it remains the most powerful and agile force in the world. From tackling cybersecurity threats to adapting to new forms of warfare, Mr. Hegseth’s forward-thinking leadership will be instrumental in preparing the U.S. military for the future.
Mr. Hegseth is a natural fit for the role of secretary of defense. His military experience, advocacy for veterans, and transformational leadership are qualities that will serve the Department of Defense—and the nation—well. Having worked with him personally, I have no doubt that he will approach the role with the same dedication and integrity he has shown throughout his career. He understands the importance of maintaining a strong military, supporting our veterans, and ensuring that the United States remains a global leader in defense.
His confirmation as secretary of defense is not just a logical choice; it is the right one for the future of our armed forces and our country.
• Kurt Lofquist is a Republican political operative and combat veteran.
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