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Controversy Erupts Over Secretary Hegseth’s Puerto Rico Visit and Attire
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s unannounced visit to Puerto Rico on Monday, accompanied by Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, has sparked controversy. While Governor Jennifer Gonzalez-Colon (R) expressed honor at welcoming Hegseth, the visit, occurring a week after a controversial Caribbean drug interdiction operation, drew protests from locals concerned about the militarization of the island.
Hegseth’s visit, seemingly part of a larger administration effort to combat drug trafficking from Latin America, has raised questions about the potential use of Puerto Rico as a base for military operations. Governor Gonzalez-Colon emphasized this role on social media, stating, “This fight against drug trafficking…will firmly position Puerto Rico as the United States’ border in the Caribbean.”
However, the visit was overshadowed by criticism of Hegseth’s attire. Videos circulated online depicting the Secretary in protective gear, including a flight helmet and life preserver, aboard the USS Iwo Jima.
Social media users questioned the necessity of the gear, suggesting it was a staged photo opportunity. One user commented, “These people love doing dress up photo ops.”
Another added, “The one thing they care most about is the cameras, not the work.”
This isn’t the first time Hegseth’s clothing choices have drawn criticism. His attire at a NASCAR event earlier this year also sparked online backlash.
Furthermore, other members of the administration, such as Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, have faced similar scrutiny for their attire during official appearances, particularly at the southern border. Noem’s combination of tactical gear and more traditionally feminine elements has fueled debate and mockery online.
Hegseth’s military service includes time in the Iraq War, where he attained the rank of major in the Minnesota Army National Guard and earned a Bronze Star.