Pete Hegseth’s guidelines for US Defence: China, immigration and fighting ‘woke’ policies

Confirmed by the Senate on the wire, Hegseth announces the revival of the warrior ethic and a hard line on cultural and geopolitical issues

Pete Hegseth is officially the new US Secretary of Defence, after confirmation came in the night from the Senate thanks to Vice President J.D. Vance’s decisive vote. In his first message to the Armed Forces, Hegseth outlined his vision, centred on defending America and countering global threats, with a focus on communist China and ‘deformed woke policies’.

Hegseth’s priorities

Hegseth, a former Fox News host and veteran with experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, was quick to reiterate the importance of ‘achieving peace through strength’ by rebuilding US military capabilities. ‘We will work with our allies to deter Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific,’ he said, adding that the Pentagon will support President Trump’s mission to end wars responsibly.

Another immediate priority is support for the immigration emergency: Hegseth announced the deployment of 1,500 soldiers to the border to strengthen security, install barriers and improve monitoring.

Culture War at the Pentagon

Among the new secretary’s first goals is the reversal of the inclusion policies introduced during the Biden administration. Hegseth has promised to remove what he calls ‘woke political influences’ from the armed forces, focusing on ‘lethality and preparedness for war’. He has also initiated a process to remove symbols associated with the former leadership, such as the portrait of General Mark Milley.

Criticism and unknowns

Hegseth’s appointment has raised concerns from Democrats and some military analysts. His controversial positions, including criticism of the presence of women and LGBTQ+ people in the military, and personal accusations of violent behaviour, were points of contention during the Senate hearing. Moreover, his ideas could bring tensions with the head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General C.Q. Brown, an advocate of diversity policies.

Loyalty to Trump and international hard line

Hegseth is known for his loyalty to President Trump and his conservative rhetoric, which resonates with the tycoon’s electoral base. On the geopolitical front, he has promised a hardline stance towards China and an alignment with Trump’s goals on NATO and Ukraine, while maintaining a sceptical approach towards allies considered ‘weak’.

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