Jason Chaffetz, a former Republican representative from Utah, predicted that Pete Hegseth would face no major opposition in his confirmation as Defense secretary, claiming he would be “easily confirmed.” In an appearance on Fox News, Chaffetz challenged Republican senators, saying, “I dare any Republican senator to vote against him. That is not in their best interest.”
Chaffetz also emphasized the urgency of getting Hegseth in position quickly, expressing his enthusiasm for the move. “We need to get him in place as soon as possible. Relief is on the way,” he said, adding, “This is exactly what I think America was striving for. And I can’t believe how excited I am.”
Jason Chaffetz predicts Pete Hegseth will sail through confirmation with ease
Fox News host Laura Ingraham joined in the praise, calling Hegseth—who serves as a co-host on “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has a background as an Army National Guard officer—a potential solution to the military’s recruitment and deficit challenges.
Despite the strong support from some quarters, Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about Trump’s selection. Adam Smith, the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, expressed doubts, questioning whether Hegseth had the necessary experience to lead the Pentagon effectively.
“There is reason for concern that this is not a person who is a serious enough policymaker, serious enough policy implementer, to do a successful job,” Smith said, as reported by The Associated Press.
Rep. Dan Goldman also voiced strong objections, describing Trump’s choice as “very disturbing.” He remarked, “I’m shocked, truly, and this is exactly what we worried about when we warned about Donald Trump—that he is going to appoint unqualified loyalists to shape this government into his own personal fiefdom.”
Several Republican senators also expressed surprise at the decision, including Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who noted that Hegseth had not been a frontrunner in prior discussions about potential Defense secretary candidates. “Wow. … I’m just surprised, because the names that I’ve heard for secretary of Defense have not included him,” Murkowski said after Trump’s announcement. Sen. Bill Cassidy from Louisiana simply responded with “Who?”
Despite the criticism, former President Trump stood firm on his decision, offering his rationale for selecting Hegseth. In a public statement, Trump described Hegseth as a lifelong advocate for the military.
“Pete has spent his entire life as a Warrior for the Troops, and for the Country. Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First,” Trump said. “With Pete at the helm, America’s enemies are on notice—Our Military will be Great Again, and America will Never Back Down.”
Since being declared the winner of the 2024 election, Trump has moved quickly to announce his appointments for key administration and Cabinet positions in anticipation of his return to the White House in January.
