Conservative women are voicing strong support for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense. They describe Hegseth as a principled leader, dedicated patriot, and advocate for both veterans and active service members.
Mary Vought, Vice President of Strategic Communications at the Heritage Foundation, worked with Hegseth at Concerned Veterans for America (CVA). She praised his professionalism and respect for women in a male-dominated field. Vought emphasized Hegseth’s commitment to reforming the Department of Veterans Affairs to better serve veterans, calling him “diligent” and “responsive” and predicting he will be an “excellent” Defense Secretary.
Gold Star mother Karen Vaughn, whose son SOC Aaron Vaughn was killed in action, called Hegseth a man of integrity and loyalty. “His word is his bond,” Vaughn said, adding, “Pete will stand in your corner, come hell or high water, if your cause is just.” She highlighted her experience working with him at CVA, where women were consistently respected and given leadership roles.
Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy described Hegseth as a “good man, father, friend, and patriot.” She highlighted his character and family values, saying he is a “devoted and caring family man” who will excel in his new role.
Tina R. Kingston, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who worked with Hegseth at CVA, attested to his leadership and respect for all employees. “Pete led the organization from the front,” Kingston said, adding that Hegseth valued input from female colleagues and treated them as equals. She dismissed allegations against Hegseth as baseless, recounting her own experience of his integrity and professionalism.
Holly K. Talley, another CVA colleague, praised Hegseth’s genuine leadership and willingness to listen. She described him as a leader who “valued and respected” her insight, treating all team members with fairness and dignity.
Despite media criticism and anonymous allegations, Hegseth has stood firm, with Trump and his allies unwavering in their support. His hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, where he is expected to address any lingering doubts directly.
