**Pete Hegseth Named Defense Secretary by President-elect Trump**

President-elect Donald J. Trump has selected Pete Hegseth, a current Fox News host and a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, to head the Pentagon. Hegseth, who is 44 years old, will be responsible for leading the 1.3 million active-duty service members of the American military. Hegseth’s appointment marks a departure from the traditional choices for the position of defense secretary, but he has been a stalwart supporter of Trump throughout his first term.

In announcing the appointment, President-elect Trump praised Hegseth's attributes and commitment to the "America First" agenda. "Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First," said Trump. "With Pete at the helm, America's enemies are on notice - our military will be great again, and America will never back down."

However, some officials within the Pentagon have expressed reservations about Hegseth’s qualifications for the role, outside of his military service. Concerns have also been raised about his potential to secure Senate confirmation, despite the Republican party having control of the chamber.

Hailing from Minnesota, Hegseth boasts an impressive academic background, having graduated from Princeton University and holding a master’s degree from Harvard. He has been married three times. Additionally, Hegseth is an author; his book "The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free" was published in June.