Pete Hegseth

Pete Hegseth is an American conservative commentator, television host, and author, best known for his role as a co-host on Fox & Friends Weekend on Fox News. A former Army National Guard officer, he served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, earning two Bronze Stars for his service. Hegseth is also a vocal advocate for veterans’ issues and served as the executive director of conservative organizations like Concerned Veterans for America. Known for his staunchly pro-Trump views and critiques of progressive policies, he often addresses issues related to patriotism, military service, and American values. In November 2024, President Elect Donald Trump nominated Hegseth for the post of Secretary of Defence in his upcoming administration. Hegseth is also a notorious enemy of Islam.

In his books, Hegseth writes that he:

• wants a “long war with violent Islamism" and a bigger detention facility at Guantanamo Bay

• is worried about Muslims winning elections in the US

• is concerned that “legal issues" may prevent the US from torturing Muslims and carrying out drone strikes on Muslim countries

• believes that “America is the world’s sheriff"

According to the New Yorker’s Jane Mayer, when Hegseth was at a bar in the early-morning hours of May 29, 2015, while on an official tour through Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, he was seen drunkenly chanting “Kill All Muslims! Kill All Muslims!

The incident in Cuyahoga Falls, though denied by Hegseth, has been cited by detractors as emblematic of his inflammatory style, raising questions about the suitability of his leadership in a role as significant as Secretary of Defence. If confirmed, his appointment would likely deepen the ideological divide in US politics and shape an aggressive, polarising approach to foreign and domestic policy concerning the Muslim world.