VETERANS CALL FOR REJECTION OF PETE HEGSETH DURING SENATE CONFIRMATION HEARING
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 14, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Clyde D. Gunter | Press Manager | clyde@commondefense.us
VETERANS CALL FOR REJECTION OF PETE HEGSETH DURING SENATE CONFIRMATION HEARING
Washington, D.C. — Common Defense, the nation’s largest grassroots organization of U.S. military veterans, has joined a coalition of leading veteran and military family organizations to express grave concerns over President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense. As part of this military-connected community, Common Defense has signed an open letter to the U.S. Senate calling for a thorough review of Hegseth’s qualifications and values during today’s Senate confirmation hearing.
The coalition’s letter, also signed by the Chamberlain Network, the Modern Military Association of America, the Truman National Security Project, and Veterans for Responsible Leadership, highlights serious questions on whether Hegseth is fit for office. The letter raises concerns about his lack of qualifications, extreme rhetoric, and his apparent loyalty to the President-elect Trump over the impartial and apolitical service required of a Secretary of Defense.
“Veterans and the military-connected community have committed themselves to service because we believe deeply in our democracy and the Constitution,” said Jose Vasquez, Executive Director of Common Defense “Our veterans, service members, and their loved ones deserve leaders who have real practical experience and proven sound judgement who will prioritize safety and security above partisan politics.”
The letter, sent to members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, urges lawmakers to exercise their constitutional duty of “Advice and Consent” to ensure that individuals in critical national security roles, such as Secretary of Defense, are equipped to lead with integrity and competence.
Key Concerns Raised in the Letter Include:
Hegseth’s lack of practical experience to manage the complexities of the Department of Defense.
His record of promoting extreme rhetoric and prioritizing partisan loyalty over apolitical service.
The critical need for leaders who can navigate urgent challenges, including global instability and domestic security threats, with sound judgment.
VIEW THE LETTER BELOW