New Pentagon Nominee is Army General with Valuable Experience Abroad

Background and Qualifications for Douglas A. Hegseth

President Trump nominated Lieutenant General Douglas A. Hegseth for a new position as Under Secretary of Defense for Policy on April 29, 2019. Hegseth retired from the Army in 2016 after serving 28 years and reaching the rank of Lieutenant General. Hegseth's main military experience was in the Middle East. He led a battalion during the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and later commanded a brigade in Afghanistan. He was also on the staff of General David Petraeus in Iraq. He was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart in recognition of his service.

Following his retirement from the military, Hegseth worked as a Fox News commentator and a senior fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute. He was also a vocal supporter of President Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign.

Hegseth's Nomination and Confirmation Process

Hegseth's nomination was met with some skepticism from Democrats, who questioned his qualifications for the position. However, he was ultimately confirmed by the Senate in a 51-43 vote on June 27, 2019. Hegseth was sworn into office on July 15, 2019.

What the Hegseth Nomination Means

The nomination of Douglas A. Hegseth is significant for several reasons. First, it is a sign of President Trump's continued commitment to appointing military veterans to senior positions in his administration. Second, it is a sign of the growing influence of conservative commentators in the Republican Party. Third, it is a sign of the Trump administration's continued focus on the Middle East.

Hegseth's nomination is likely to have a significant impact on US policy in the Middle East. He is a strong supporter of President Trump's decision to withdraw US troops from Syria and Afghanistan. He is also a strong supporter of Israel and has been critical of the Obama administration's nuclear deal with Iran. Hegseth's views are likely to be reflected in the Trump administration's policies in the Middle East.