Transition to the
Prom
Backed by
Concerns about Pete Hegseth’s leadership abilities have been raised due to his past troubles at work. Before becoming President-elect Donald J. Trump’s choice for defense secretary, he had led two nonprofits into financial debt. Additionally, his history of drinking problems extended into his time as a Fox News personality.
Written by Sharon LaFraniere, David A. Fahrenthold, Dave Philipps, and Kate Kelly.
Pete Hegseth quickly gained popularity as a contributor on Fox News, becoming a prominent figure on the conservative media outlet. As a veteran with a decorated military background, he eventually became the weekend anchor of the well-liked "Fox & Friends" show, making him a familiar face to viewers nationwide, including President-elect Donald J. Trump.
Mr. Trump was very impressed and decided to appoint Mr. Hegseth, who is 44 years old, as the head of the Department of Defense. However, what was happening at the network behind the scenes was not well known to Fox News viewers or most likely to Mr. Trump.
On multiple occasions in the beginning of his time at the network, Mr. Hegseth’s excessive drinking and loud behavior at Fox News events became more serious incidents that were brought to the attention of company officials or colleagues. These incidents highlight worries about his conduct that have put his chances of leading the Pentagon at risk.
Mr. Hegseth has stated that he still has the full backing of Mr. Trump, but as of Tuesday night, reports indicated that the president-elect was considering selecting a different candidate for the important position.
The human resources department at Fox News investigated Mr. Hegseth’s behavior at the "Fox & Friends" Christmas party in 2016 and had a conversation with him about it. This information comes from a source who wished to remain anonymous.
In December of the same year, Mr. Hegseth became heavily intoxicated at a wedding hosted by a Fox News producer. Witnesses, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear of backlash, reported that he had difficulty standing in the men’s restroom. Concerned friends asked a producer at the event to arrange a ride for Mr. Hegseth to ensure he could make it to the set by 6 a.m.
We are currently experiencing difficulties in accessing the content of the article.
To utilize all features on this website, make sure to activate
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm your access. If you are currently in Reader mode, please log out and sign in to your Times account, or consider subscribing to access all of The Times content.
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm access.
Are you already a member? Please sign in.
Interested in accessing all content from The Times? Sign up for a
Prom
Index of the website
Navigation to find information on