By James S. Bridgeforth, Ph.D.
The confirmation hearings for Pete Hegseth, former Fox News host and President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, have begun. Hegseth’s nomination comes at a time of profound global instability: the wars in Gaza and Ukraine rage on, and the geopolitical threats posed by China and Russia loom larger than ever. In such a precarious moment, the role of Secretary of Defense—a position overseeing the largest federal bureaucracy with 3.4 million employees and an $850 billion budget—requires an individual with proven expertise, leadership and credibility. Yet, Hegseth’s résumé raises serious concerns about his fitness for this crucial role.
The Case Against Pete Hegseth
Polling data underscores widespread public skepticism about Hegseth’s qualifications. According to a recent survey, only 20% of Americans approve of his nomination, with 36% disapproving and the rest either undecided or unaware of his track record. Among Republicans, nearly 40% report having insufficient information to form an opinion. This lukewarm reception is indicative of broader concerns about Hegseth’s leadership credentials—or lack thereof.
Hegseth’s career trajectory does little to inspire confidence.
Before becoming a Fox News personality, he led two military-affiliated nonprofit organizations—Veterans for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America—but was forced to step down from both amid internal controversies.
Compounding these doubts are allegations of misconduct, including a 2017 sexual assault claim reported by Reuters. Although Hegseth has denied these allegations, their existence casts a long shadow over his nomination.
Even more troubling is Hegseth’s stated focus on dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the military, removing women from combat roles and restoring Confederate names to military installations.
This culture war agenda threatens to undermine military readiness at a time when recruitment is already in decline. The United States currently lags behind China and India in troop numbers, and without robust DEI programs to attract and retain diverse talent, the military risks falling further behind its global adversaries.
The “Good Ol’ Boy” Network in Action
Hegseth’s nomination is emblematic of a larger problem in American politics: the persistence of the “Good Ol’ Boy” network. This system, rooted in nepotism and cronyism, prioritizes loyalty and personal connections over qualifications and merit. It is a structure that overwhelmingly benefits white men while systematically excluding women and people of color from leadership roles.
The data speaks volumes.
Studies consistently show that diverse leadership teams are more effective, innovative and resilient. Organizations with strong DEI initiatives not only perform better but are also better equipped to navigate complex challenges.
Despite these findings, President-elect Trump’s cabinet nominations have overwhelmingly favored individuals with limited experience but strong personal loyalty to him. Hegseth’s nomination is no exception.
This reliance on the “Good Ol’ Boy” network is particularly dangerous when applied to critical positions like Secretary of Defense. The role demands expertise in national security, diplomacy and organizational leadership—qualities that Hegseth’s record does not demonstrate. Instead, his nomination appears to be a political statement aimed at preserving the status quo of power and privilege.
Why DEI Is Essential
Barack Obama’s cabinet from his first presidency, which exemplified diversity, equity and inclusion (Public Domain).
Critics of DEI argue that such initiatives undermine meritocracy, but the truth is quite the opposite. DEI programs are designed to level the playing field, ensuring that the most qualified individuals—regardless of race, gender, or background—have access to opportunities. By dismantling DEI, Hegseth and his supporters are not protecting meritocracy; they are perpetuating a system that prioritizes privilege over performance.
In the military, diversity is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic necessity. A diverse force is a stronger force, capable of understanding and addressing the complex cultural and geopolitical challenges of the modern world.
Removing DEI initiatives from the military would not only weaken its operational effectiveness but also send a message to talented individuals from underrepresented backgrounds that they are not welcome.
The Stakes Are High
The Hegseth confirmation hearings are about more than one man’s qualifications; they are a referendum on the values that guide American governance.
If confirmed, Hegseth’s appointment would set a dangerous precedent, paving the way for future administrations to prioritize loyalty over competence in filling critical leadership roles.
Imagine a Democratic administration appointing Joy Reid to lead the Department of Defense—not because of her qualifications, but because of her ideological alignment. While this scenario may sound far-fetched, it highlights the slippery slope that the Senate is poised to enable.
At its core, this debate is about what kind of country we want to be. Will we continue to allow a small group of privileged insiders to dominate the halls of power, or will we embrace the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion that make our institutions stronger and more representative? The choice is ours to make—and the consequences will shape our nation’s future for generations to come.
As the hearings unfold, Americans must demand accountability from their leaders and insist on appointments that reflect the best of what this country has to offer.
Anything less is a disservice to the American people and a betrayal of the values we claim to hold dear.
Bridgeforth enjoys writing as a political columnist who is a passionate advocate for justice and equality whose academic journey reflects a profound commitment to these ideals. With a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Catawba College, Bridgeforth began his quest to understand and address systemic inequalities. He furthered his expertise with a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from The University of Massachusetts-Amherst, followed by a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Institutional Research from The University of Southern Mississippi.
Beyond his impressive academic credentials, Bridgeforth is deeply involved in organizations dedicated to empowerment and community service, including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America. His columns provide insightful commentary on equal opportunity, social justice, economic equity, and higher education, driven by a sincere desire to amplify voices and champion the causes of those often marginalized.
Through his writing, Bridgeforth brings a blend of scholarly rigor and heartfelt advocacy, aiming to inspire change and foster a more just society for all.