Who's Running America... Trump's Defence Chief (Pete Hegseth)

Feb 16, 2025

David Phillips, a New York Times correspondent specializing in military affairs, and Sarah Jones, a political analyst for New York Magazine, join to dissect Pete Hegseth's controversial ascent to Secretary of Defense. They explore Hegseth's complex transition from soldier to media figure and analyze his Christian nationalist beliefs. Topics include the deep bonds within Trump's administration, potential gender biases in military leadership, and the implications of Hegseth's ideologies on defense policy and military culture.

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ANECDOTE

Hegseth's Military Journey

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has a diverse background, including deployments in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
His military experience shaped his views on US foreign policy.

INSIGHT

Fox News and Trump's Orbit

Hegseth's shift from condemning war crimes to defending accused soldiers on Fox News earned Trump's attention.
This calculated move aligned with Trump's "America First" rhetoric.

INSIGHT

Leading Veterans' Organization

Hegseth led a veterans' organization funded by the Koch brothers.
Their goal was to push against the public healthcare provided to veterans.

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Our latest mini series is here and this time we're profiling some of the key players in Donald Trump's presidency, who are now running America. Over the next few weeks, new profiles will drop every Sunday.

Pete Hegseth is the new Secretary of Defence, overseeing America’s military and defence strategy. A former national guardsman and Fox News host, Hegseth’s confirmation has been controversial. Dogged with allegations of womanizing, binge-drinking and sexual assault (which he denies), several senators opposed his nomination while some argued he did not have the necessary experience to run the Department of Defence.

Anthony is joined by David Phillips from the New York Times, who specialises in the military, and has spoken to former army personnel who served with Hegseth, plus Sarah Jones from New York Magazine. We also hear from David Goodwin, who co-authored an education book with Hegseth, and tells us more about his tattoos, and Christian faith.

HOSTS: • Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

GUESTS • David Phillips, Correspondent at the New York Times reporting on war, the military and veterans • Sarah Jones, Senior writer for New York Magazine

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This episode was made by Keiligh Baker, with Catherine Fusillo, Claire Betzer and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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