More Than 30 House Republicans, Military Veterans, Express Strong Support for Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary
A letter signed by more than 30 House Republicans, all of whom are military veterans, has expressed “strong support” for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump’s nominee for Defense Secretary. The letter, written by Rep. August Pfluger of Texas, urges the Senate to conduct a fair and thorough confirmation process for Hegseth, highlighting his distinguished military service, academic credentials, and vision for revitalizing national defense.
The letter, sent to Republican Sen. John Thune and Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer, notes that Hegseth’s ability to communicate across institutional landscapes will be crucial in executing a clear vision that cuts through bureaucratic inertia. Pfluger, an Air Force Academy graduate and former pilot, emphasizes that Hegseth’s unorthodox yet qualified leadership will be essential in streamlining the defense bureaucracy and accelerating modernization.
The letter is co-signed by fellow veterans, including Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida, Trump’s pick to serve as his national security adviser. Waltz, a colonel in the National Guard, received four Bronze Stars while serving in the Special Forces during multiple combat tours.
Other signatories include Reps. Mike Bost, Andrew Clyde, Elijah Crane, Jake Ellzey, Scott Fitzgerald, Scott Franklin, Mark Green, Clay Higgins, Wesley Hunt, Ronny Jackson, Trent Kelly, Nick LaLota, Barry Loudermilk, Anna Paulina Luna, Morgan Luttrell, Brian Mast, Richard McCormick, Max Miller, Cory Mills, Barry Moore, Troy Nehls, Zach Nunn, Guy Reschenthaler, Keith Self, Greg Steube, William Timmons, Derrick Van Orden, Brandon Williams, Ryan Zinke, and Dan Crenshaw.