1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

The choice of Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and Army veteran, as the next secretary of defense is concerning given the significant responsibilities and experience typically required for this critical role overseeing the U.S. military. While Hegseth served in Afghanistan and Iraq, he lacks the high-level command experience and strategic leadership background that is customary for this cabinet position. Previous secretaries of defense have held high military ranks and garnered extensive operational and policy expertise over decades of service. Ensuring strong and seasoned leadership atop the Department of Defense is paramount for maintaining military readiness, supporting servicemembers and their families, and promoting America's security interests around the world. The cabinet nomination process exists to thoroughly vet candidates' qualifications. I urge careful scrutiny and deliberation on whether Hegseth's record merits confirmation to this uniquely consequential position in charge of our nation's defense enterprise and global force posture. Our women and men in uniform deserve a secretary whose credentials and capabilities are commensurate with the immense duties of this office.