Additional Coverage:
Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, has expressed support for women serving in combat roles during his Senate confirmation hearing for Defense Secretary. Hegseth previously voiced opposition to women in combat, but he clarified that he supports them serving if they meet the same standards as men.
The military has long maintained a policy that allows anyone who meets operational and gender-neutral standards to serve in any position. However, some have raised concerns about lowering standards to meet recruitment goals.
Hegseth’s views have shifted from his earlier statements that women should not be in combat roles. He now acknowledges that women can contribute to the military and should not be excluded based on gender.
Despite his change in stance, some Democrats remain skeptical of his nomination. Senator Tammy Duckworth suggested that confirming Hegseth would require lowering Senate standards. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand expressed concerns about his views on women and questioned his ability to change them.
If confirmed, Hegseth would need to implement the merit-based system that the Pentagon claims is already in place. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of meeting the same standards regardless of gender.