Trump’s Defense Pick Being Called A What?
President-elect Donald Trump’s recent nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense has sparked controversy, particularly regarding accusations related to his tattoos. Hegseth, a National Guard veteran, Fox News personality, and outspoken conservative, has come under fire from left-wing media outlets, with some attempting to link his tattoos to white nationalism. One such tattoo, a Latin phrase “Deus Vult” (“God Wills It”), has been labeled by critics as controversial due to its historical association with the Crusades.
The debate around Hegseth’s tattoos gained momentum after an Associated Press report revealed that he was temporarily removed from his National Guard duties during President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021. The report suggested that his “Deus Vult” tattoo made him a potential “insider threat,” due to its occasional use by extremists. Hegseth quickly defended himself, asserting that his tattoos, which reflect his deep Christian faith, have been mischaracterized for political gain.
Vice President-elect J.D. Vance voiced his support for Hegseth, calling the attacks on him an example of “disgusting anti-Christian bigotry.” Vance further condemned the media for targeting Hegseth based on his religious convictions, a sentiment that Hegseth echoed in his response. He declared that such attacks would cease on his first day as Secretary of Defense, emphasizing that the new administration would not tolerate the demonization of conservatives or Christians.
In addition to “Deus Vult,” Hegseth has a Jerusalem Cross tattoo, which he previously stated led to his exclusion from Biden’s inauguration. Critics have also used his outspoken opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the military as ammunition to label him an extremist. However, former Biden spokesperson Michael LaRosa pushed back, insisting that opposing DEI does not equate to white supremacy. LaRosa argued that this kind of baseless demonization has only hurt the left politically.
Hegseth’s nomination comes at a time when many conservatives are calling for a return to traditional values in the military, including a full rollback of DEI programs that they argue weaken the armed forces. Hegseth, for his part, has made it clear that if confirmed, he would take decisive action to remove military leaders who have promoted these divisive policies. In a prior interview, he boldly stated that “any general or admiral involved in DEI programs has got to go.”
Hegseth’s nomination signals a potential shift in the Pentagon’s direction, focusing on unity, strength, and a commitment to military readiness, rather than woke political agendas. His critics may continue to attack him, but his supporters see him as a strong, principled leader who will defend traditional values and put the interests of the nation’s defense above all else.
