Peter Brian Hegseth, born on June 6, 1980, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an American television presenter, author, and Army veteran. He graduated from Princeton University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in politics and later earned a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Hegseth served as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard, with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge.
Pete Hegseth Biography
Transitioning to media, he became a co-host of “Fox & Friends Weekend” on the Fox News Channel, where he was known for his conservative views. In January 2025, under President Donald Trump’s second administration, Hegseth was confirmed as the United States Secretary of Defense after a narrow 51-50 Senate vote, with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.
His confirmation was contentious due to allegations of personal misconduct and his opposition to women in combat roles. Despite these controversies, Hegseth has pledged to focus on military readiness and address global security threats, particularly concerning adversaries like China.
Early Life and Education
Pete Hegseth attended Princeton University, where he pursued a degree in politics and graduated in 2003. During his time at Princeton, he actively participated in the university’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, which played a significant role in shaping his leadership skills and preparing him for future service in the U.S. military.
Through his involvement in the ROTC, Hegseth underwent rigorous physical and tactical training, developing a strong sense of discipline, duty, and patriotism. His dedication to military service was evident as he took on various responsibilities within the program, fostering a deep appreciation for national defense and strategic leadership.
Beyond his military commitments, Hegseth was also deeply engaged in Princeton’s intellectual and political life. He contributed to The Princeton Tory, a well-known conservative student-run publication that provided a platform for students to discuss and promote right-leaning viewpoints on a wide range of topics, including national policy, campus affairs, and cultural issues.
Through his writings, Hegseth articulated his strong beliefs on conservative values, such as limited government, national security, and traditional American principles. His contributions to The Princeton Tory allowed him to engage in meaningful political discourse, sharpen his analytical skills, and establish himself as a persuasive communicator of conservative thought.
During his time at Princeton, Hegseth also participated in various extracurricular activities that complemented his academic and military training. He was known for his leadership qualities, passion for public service, and unwavering commitment to his beliefs. His experiences at the Ivy League institution provided him with a solid foundation in political theory, governance, and strategic decision-making—skills that would later prove invaluable in his military and media careers.
Hegseth’s years at Princeton University were instrumental in shaping his future trajectory. The rigorous academic environment, combined with his military training and journalistic endeavors, helped him cultivate a well-rounded perspective on national and global issues. These formative years not only prepared him for his eventual service in the U.S. Army but also for his later roles as a television commentator, author, and public figure.
Military Service
After graduating, Pete Hegseth embarked on his military career by joining the Army National Guard as an infantry officer. His first deployment took him to Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, where he was involved in detainee operations. Following this, he served as a platoon leader during his deployment to Iraq, where he led combat missions and worked to maintain security in high-risk areas.
Later, he was stationed in Afghanistan, where he specialized in teaching counterinsurgency tactics to local forces and U.S. troops, helping to combat insurgent threats and stabilize the region. Throughout his military tenure, Hegseth displayed exceptional leadership and dedication, earning him prestigious awards, including two Bronze Stars for his valor and meritorious service in combat zones. Additionally, he received the Combat Infantryman Badge, recognizing his direct participation in active ground combat.
Media Career
After transitioning from military service to the media industry, Pete Hegseth began his career as a contributor to Fox News in 2014, where he provided expert analysis on military and political issues. His insightful commentary and staunch conservative views quickly gained him a prominent role within the network. In 2017, he was promoted to co-host of the popular weekend morning show Fox & Friends Weekend, a position he held until 2024.
During his tenure, Hegseth became widely recognized for his unwavering support of President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies, frequently advocating for a strong national defense, border security, and traditional American values. His charismatic on-air presence and unapologetic approach to conservative issues resonated with viewers, solidifying his reputation as a trusted voice within right-leaning media circles.
Beyond television, Hegseth contributed opinion pieces to various conservative publications and authored books that reinforced his political beliefs, further expanding his influence in the political media landscape.
Political Involvement
In 2012, Pete Hegseth ventured into politics by announcing his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat in Minnesota as a Republican. With his military background and strong conservative principles, he positioned himself as a candidate focused on national security, veterans’ affairs, and constitutional values. However, his campaign faced challenges in gaining traction against more established Republican contenders, leading him to withdraw from the race before the primary elections. Despite this setback, Hegseth remained active in conservative political circles, using his platform on Fox News to advocate for issues such as military strength, Second Amendment rights, and government accountability.
Following President Donald Trump’s successful re-election in 2024, Hegseth’s longstanding support and alignment with Trump’s policies earned him a nomination for a key position in the administration. In January 2025, after a rigorous confirmation process, he was officially appointed and confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Defense.
His appointment was met with both praise and criticism, as his supporters highlighted his military experience and unwavering commitment to American defense priorities, while critics raised concerns about his lack of traditional defense policy experience and controversial statements on various national security issues. As Secretary of Defense, Hegseth has pledged to prioritize military readiness, enhance border security, and confront emerging global threats, particularly focusing on countering adversaries like China and strengthening alliances with strategic partners.
Controversies
Pete Hegseth’s career has been marked by several controversies, reflecting his outspoken conservative views and unfiltered rhetoric. In January 2025, reports surfaced alleging that he had publicly endorsed extremist Christian views associated with Christian reconstructionism during multiple podcast appearances. This theological and political ideology advocates for a society governed by biblical law, a stance that has drawn significant criticism from both secular and religious communities.
Hegseth’s remarks reportedly included strong critiques of modern societal trends, such as feminism, which he described as undermining traditional family values. He also voiced opposition to critical race theory, arguing that it promotes division and victimhood rather than unity and personal responsibility.
Additionally, Hegseth expressed skepticism toward the public education system, claiming that it fosters liberal ideologies at the expense of patriotic and faith-based values. These statements sparked widespread debate, with critics accusing him of promoting an exclusionary and regressive worldview incompatible with the diverse fabric of American society.
Supporters, however, defended his views as a necessary counterpoint to what they perceive as the progressive overreach in education and social policy. As Secretary of Defense, his controversial remarks raised concerns about his ability to lead a diverse military force and maintain the separation of church and state, with calls from civil rights groups and political opponents for greater scrutiny of his conduct and policy decisions.
Additionally, during his confirmation hearings for the role of Secretary of Defense, allegations surfaced regarding personal misconduct, including sexual assault and financial mismanagement. Despite these allegations, he was confirmed in a narrow Senate vote, with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.
Personal Life
Pete Hegseth’s personal life has seen several chapters, marked by three marriages and a growing family. His first marriage was to Meredith Schwarz, but the couple eventually parted ways. He later married Samantha Hegseth, with whom he shared a life for several years. Their marriage produced three children, and during this time, Hegseth balanced his family responsibilities with his rising career in media and politics. However, the relationship ultimately ended in divorce.
In August 2019, Hegseth married his current wife, Jennifer Rauchet, a Fox Nation executive producer. Their wedding was an intimate affair held at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, reflecting their shared conservative values and close ties to the Trump administration. Together, they have one child, further expanding Hegseth’s blended family. Jennifer, who also has children from a previous relationship, frequently shares moments of their family life on social media, showcasing their shared love for patriotism, faith, and traditional values.
Despite the challenges that come with a high-profile career and personal life in the public eye, Hegseth has often emphasized the importance of family, faith, and fatherhood. He has credited his experiences as a father with shaping his perspectives on leadership and personal responsibility, often drawing on these values in his political and media commentary.
Publications
As an author, Hegseth has written several books, including:
- In the Arena: Good Citizens, a Great Republic, and How One Speech Can Reinvigorate America
- American Crusade: Our Fight to Stay Free
- Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes
These works reflect his perspectives on patriotism, military service, and American values.
Throughout his diverse career, Pete Hegseth has been a prominent and often polarizing figure in American public life, known for his military service, media presence, and political involvement.
Conclusion
Pete Hegseth’s journey from military service to media and politics has been marked by dedication, controversy, and influence. As an Army veteran with multiple deployments, he has earned commendations for his service and leadership. Transitioning into media, Hegseth became a prominent conservative voice, using his platform on Fox News to advocate for military strength, national security, and traditional values.
His foray into politics and subsequent appointment as the U.S. Secretary of Defense under President Trump’s second administration further solidified his influence in shaping national defense policies. Despite facing criticism and controversies surrounding his outspoken views, Hegseth continues to be a key figure in conservative circles.
His personal life, marked by three marriages and his role as a father, reflects his commitment to faith, family, and service to his country. Whether admired or critiqued, Pete Hegseth remains a significant presence in American political and media landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Pete Hegseth?
Pete Hegseth is an American television presenter, author, and Army veteran known for his work with Fox News and his role as the U.S. Secretary of Defense in President Donald Trump’s second administration.
2. What military awards has Pete Hegseth received?
Hegseth has been awarded two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge for his service during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
3. When did Pete Hegseth start working with Fox News?
He joined Fox News as a contributor in 2014 and later co-hosted Fox & Friends Weekend from 2017 to 2024.
4. What controversies has Pete Hegseth faced?
Hegseth has faced controversies over his conservative views, including criticism of feminism, critical race theory, and public education. He was also reported to have endorsed extremist Christian views linked to Christian reconstructionism.
5. How many times has Pete Hegseth been married?
Pete Hegseth has been married three times. His current wife is Jennifer Rauchet, whom he married in August 2019. He has four children, three from his previous marriage to Samantha Hegseth and one with Jennifer Rauchet.
6. What books has Pete Hegseth written?
Hegseth has authored books focusing on military affairs, American values, and conservative viewpoints, including In the Arena and American Crusade.
7. What is Pete Hegseth’s connection to President Trump?
Hegseth has been a strong supporter of Donald Trump and his policies, which led to his appointment as the U.S. Secretary of Defense in January 2025.
8. Where was Pete Hegseth born and raised?
He was born on June 6, 1980, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and grew up in Forest Lake, Minnesota.
9. What are Pete Hegseth’s educational qualifications?
Hegseth earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Princeton University and later completed a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University.
10. What role does Pete Hegseth play in current U.S. defense policy?
As Secretary of Defense, Hegseth focuses on military readiness, strengthening national security, and addressing global threats, particularly concerning China and border security.
