Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jan 26: Pete Hegseth took the oath of office as the United States secretary of defense on Saturday, pledging to restore the country’s military strength and establish deterrence against global threats. Vice president J D Vance administered the oath during a formal ceremony.
Hegseth’s confirmation was marked by a dramatic 50-50 vote in the Senate on Friday, with vice president Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The confirmation faced opposition from all 47 Democrats and three Republican senators. With Republicans holding a 53-47 majority in the Senate, the vice president’s decisive vote ensured Hegseth’s appointment, making him the third member of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet to be confirmed, following secretary of state Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Radcliffe. Hegseth and Rubio will now represent the US in future 2+2 ministerial meetings with India’s external affairs minister S Jaishankar and defense minister Rajnath Singh.
Speaking after his swearing-in, Hegseth outlined his vision for the department of defense, emphasizing the restoration of the “warrior ethos” within the armed forces, rebuilding military strength, and ensuring deterrence against adversaries. He stated that the United States aims to deter conflicts rather than initiate them but vowed to use overwhelming and decisive force if necessary.
During his confirmation hearing, Hegseth identified the Indo-Pacific region and the threat from China as his primary focus. He highlighted plans to collaborate with allies to counter Chinese aggression and reallocate resources from prolonged wars to address emerging challenges. He was introduced at the hearing by Mike Waltz, President Trump’s National security adviser, who is known for his hardline stance on China and co-chairing the India Caucus in the house of representatives.
Hegseth brings a wealth of experience to the role. A graduate of Princeton University with an advanced degree from Harvard, he is a decorated combat veteran who served in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He has been awarded two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman’s Badge, reflecting his dedication to service and leadership.
The confirmation of Pete Hegseth as secretary of defense signals the Trump administration’s commitment to strengthening the US military and addressing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.