During the Wednesday, January 15 episode of *The View*,
the hosts did not hold back in their criticism of Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for the position of defense secretary.
The conversation was filled with scathing remarks as the co-hosts voiced their concerns over Hegseth’s qualifications, character,
and suitability for such a crucial role in the U.S. government.
Hegseth, 44, faced a turbulent Senate confirmation hearing the previous day,
which saw him address serious allegations of sexual misconduct, infidelity, and heavy drinking.
These controversies, combined with concerns about his experience and moral character, have put his nomination on shaky ground. Despite this, Hegseth stood firm during the hearing, asserting that he was “saved by the grace of God” and prepared to lead. However, the *View* hosts were unimpressed and took to their platforms to voice their disapproval.
Alyssa Farrah Griffin, 35, a former White House communications director, was especially critical, stating that Hegseth is “unqualified both on moral character, but also on experience.” She pointed out that while Hegseth had served in the military, it is not enough to qualify him for the role of defense secretary. “Millions of Americans have served our country, but that doesn’t make them prepared to take what I would argue is the second most important job, the president being the only other individual who can deploy U.S. troops,” she explained. Farrah Griffin also expressed her disappointment in the Republican Party’s decision to lower their standards for the role of defense secretary, calling it a “bad decision.”
Joy Behar, 82, did not mince words either, describing Hegseth as “so smug” and accusing him of knowing that his loyalty to Trump was the key to securing the position. She said, “He just sits there because he knows the fix is in. He knows that all he has to do is be loyal to Trump and he’s in, and the rest just follows suit.” Behar went on to lament the absence of strong, competent individuals in Trump’s administration, contrasting it with the previous administration, which had notable figures such as Rex Tillerson and James Mattis. “Nobody is going to be in the guardrail to protect the American people from this insanity that’s going on,” Behar warned.
Whoopi Goldberg, 69, joined in with her own pointed remarks, making a joke about Hegseth’s controversial stance on women serving in combat roles. Referring to Hegseth’s previous comments suggesting that women should not serve in the military in combat positions, Goldberg quipped, “I want him to sit in front of those female generals and tell them they’re not qualified—to their face.” Goldberg’s sarcastic remark underscored the frustration the hosts felt regarding Hegseth’s qualifications and past comments.
The scrutiny surrounding Hegseth’s nomination is not solely based on his views, but also on the multitude of damaging allegations that have surfaced. His nomination has become one of the most controversial among Trump’s Cabinet picks. Despite his assertions of redemption, having credited his wife and faith for his growth, the allegations against him remain a significant roadblock in his confirmation process. As the Senate continues to deliberate on his suitability for the Pentagon’s top job, Hegseth faces an uphill battle.
In his confirmation hearing, Hegseth acknowledged his imperfections, stating, “I’m not a perfect person as has been acknowledged,” before emphasizing that he has been “forged by God in ways that I know I’m prepared for.” However, many, including the hosts of *The View*, have expressed their doubts about whether Hegseth’s experience, combined with his controversial past, makes him fit for such a pivotal role in the U.S. government.
With the confirmation process still underway, Hegseth’s fate hangs in the balance. While his supporters may point to his military background as evidence of his qualifications, the *The View* hosts made it clear that they believe he is far from the right choice for defense secretary, criticizing him not only for his lack of experience but also for his moral shortcomings.
Whether Hegseth can garner enough support to overcome the scrutiny of the Senate remains to be seen.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.