Democrats and veterans groups are criticizing Trump’s Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth for his belief that women should not serve in combat roles. At least two GOP senators are also seeking clarification on his stance.
Hegseth, a Fox News host, has made controversial comments regarding military matters he would oversee as Pentagon chief if confirmed. His recent statements have raised concerns that his views could discourage women from serving or alienate those currently in uniform.
During an appearance on “The Shawn Ryan Show” podcast, Hegseth stated, “We should not have women in combat roles.” He argued that having women in combat has not improved effectiveness or lethality, but has made fighting more complex.
Following Trump’s announcement selecting Hegseth, combat veteran Sen. Joni Ernst expressed the need for clarification on his position. Incoming Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker also indicated a desire to learn more about Hegseth’s views.
Sen. Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran and Purple Heart recipient, strongly criticized Hegseth, stating that he is not qualified to serve as Secretary of Defense. She emphasized the importance of women in the military and questioned how excluding them from combat roles would strengthen the nation’s military.
The Trump transition team did not respond to requests for comment on Hegseth’s remarks. Women have been serving in combat roles for nearly three decades, with progress made in allowing them to fill various positions previously restricted to men.
Despite Hegseth’s military background, his comments on women in combat have drawn backlash from veterans organizations and Democratic lawmakers. They argue that women have proven themselves capable in combat and that excluding them would be detrimental to the military.
Various veterans expressed concerns over Hegseth’s dismissal of diversity initiatives and resistance to acknowledging the contributions of women and LGBTQ service members. They emphasized the importance of a military that embraces diversity and inclusivity.
Overall, the debate over women in combat roles continues, with many advocating for equality and recognition of the contributions made by women in the military.
Muchos estaban detrás de las líneas enemigas o en el frente proporcionando una variedad de apoyo directo y muchos se hacían pasar por hombres disparando en las líneas del frente. El actual presidente del Comité de Servicios Armados de la Cámara, Adam Smith, dijo que el nombramiento de Hegseth sería “un paso atrás”. “Cada persona que se pone el uniforme merece respeto, gratitud y una oportunidad justa de servir. El nombramiento de Pete Hegseth por parte de Trump es un paso atrás. Me opondré a cualquier intento de negar respeto o restringir el derecho a servir basado en el género”, escribió Smith en X. Hegseth podría enfrentar un camino difícil hacia la confirmación, ya que los republicanos solo tendrán una mayoría mínima en el Senado y sus comentarios pasados y su estatus relativamente no probado pueden servir como obstáculos. Fuente de enlace.