After 51-50 Confirmation, Defense Secretary Hegseth Vows DEI Ban, Troop Reinstatement, 'Iron Dome' Plan

Jan 27, 2025, 02:05 PM

Pete Hegseth has been confirmed and sworn in as the United States Secretary of Defense, following a narrow Senate vote of 51-50, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. Hegseth, a veteran and former television host, has pledged to restore the military's warrior ethos, rebuild its strength, and reestablish deterrence under President Donald Trump's leadership. In his initial address, he declared, 'We don't want to fight wars. But if we do, we will bring overwhelming force and destroy our enemy.' He announced plans to remove Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives from the Department of Defense, stating that those who fail to comply with the DEI ban will be fired. Hegseth also intends to reinstate troops dismissed over COVID-19 vaccine mandates and support operations to secure the southern border, emphasizing that 'whatever is needed at the border will be provided.' He referred to military bases by their original names, Fort Bragg and Fort Benning, indicating a possible reversal of prior renaming decisions. Hegseth also proposed the development of an 'Iron Dome for America' missile defense system. He emphasized that the Defense Department will support the defense of the territorial integrity of the United States and that the lawful orders of the President will be executed swiftly and without excuse. He was greeted at the Pentagon by Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. CQ Brown, whom he stated he looks forward to working with despite prior criticisms. Hegseth's confirmation and swift policy actions signal a significant shift in military priorities under the Trump administration.