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The issues Pete Hegseth faced at his job are causing concerns about his leadership abilities. Before being chosen as defense secretary by President-elect Donald J. Trump, Hegseth had led two nonprofits into financial difficulties. Additionally, there were instances of him drinking even while working as a Fox News personality.
Written by Sharon LaFraniere, David A. Fahrenthold, Dave Philipps, and Kate Kelly.
Since joining Fox News as a contributor, Pete Hegseth has become increasingly popular on the conservative media outlet. As a decorated combat veteran, he is now the weekend anchor of "Fox & Friends" and is well-known to viewers nationwide, including President-elect Donald J. Trump.
After being impressed by Mr. Hegseth, Mr. Trump decided to nominate him as the head of the Department of Defense. However, Fox News viewers and Mr. Trump may not have been aware of the developments occurring at the network.
On multiple occasions in his early years at Fox News, Mr. Hegseth’s excessive drinking and disruptive conduct at company events led to incidents that were dealt with by company officials or colleagues. These incidents raise worries about his behavior that have jeopardized his chances of leading the Pentagon.
Despite Mr. Hegseth claiming to still have the support of Mr. Trump, reports emerged on Tuesday night that the president-elect was considering selecting a different candidate for the important role.
An anonymous source familiar with the situation said that Fox News’ HR department examined Pete Hegseth’s behavior at the 2016 "Fox & Friends" Christmas party and had a conversation with him about it.
In December of the same year, Mr. Hegseth attended a wedding for a Fox News producer and became extremely intoxicated. Witnesses, who chose to remain anonymous, reported seeing him unable to stand properly in the men’s bathroom. Concerned friends asked another producer at the event to arrange for Mr. Hegseth to be driven home so he could be on set by 6 a.m.
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