United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed on Monday that the military will continue to assist President Donald Trump’s large-scale deportation of migrants.
This announcement came as he began his first formal day at the Pentagon.
Hegseth, who was confirmed by Republicans despite widespread concerns about his lack of experience and allegations of heavy drinking and domestic violence, has emerged as one of the most controversial members of Trump’s cabinet. His confirmation was achieved by the narrowest of margins, with Vice President JD Vance casting the deciding vote in a historic 50-50 tie in the Senate.
The former Fox News host wasted no time aligning himself with the president’s hardline policies, including using the military to support Trump’s immigration agenda. “Support of mass deportations in support of the president’s objective — that is something the Defence Department absolutely will continue to do,” Hegseth told reporters on the Pentagon steps.
This stance comes in the wake of a diplomatic standoff over the weekend when Colombia turned away two US military planes carrying Colombian nationals. In response, President Trump threatened economic tariffs, which pressured the US ally into accepting the repatriation flights.
Hegseth also indicated that more executive orders were forthcoming, targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the Pentagon. Additionally, he stated that plans are underway to reinstate troops who were discharged for failing to comply with the now-rescinded Covid-19 vaccine mandate. “Our job is lethality and readiness and war fighting and (to) hold people accountable,” he declared. “The lawful orders of the president of United States will be executed inside this Defence Department — swiftly and without excuse.”
Hegseth’s confirmation has sparked intense debate, with critics citing his lack of experience leading an organisation as vast as the Defence Department, which employs approximately three million people, making it the largest employer in the United States. Concerns were further amplified by allegations of financial mismanagement at veterans’ nonprofits where he previously worked, as well as reports of excessive drinking, domestic abuse, and an accusation of sexual assault in California.
The 44-year-old former Army National Guard officer is known for his combative media persona, staunch loyalty to Trump, and his telegenic appeal — traits that resonate with the president’s inner circle. Supporters argue that Hegseth’s combat experience in Afghanistan and Iraq equips him to lead the Defence Department effectively, even without traditional qualifications.
During his confirmation hearing last week, Hegseth addressed the controversies surrounding him, asserting that he was the target of a “coordinated smear campaign.” He admitted, “I am not a perfect person, but redemption is real.” Despite his contentious past and limited experience, his appointment underscores the president’s preference for loyalists who share his vision for reshaping government institutions.
