CNN’s Scott Jennings Goes Off In Defense Of Pete Hegseth As Defense Secretary [WATCH]

CNN analyst Scott Jennings strongly defended President-elect Donald Trump’s choice of Fox News host and Army veteran Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, countering criticism on air and slamming the Pentagon’s current leadership record.

ALL WOKENESS in the MILITARY will be OVER. Pray for Pete Hegseth. pic.twitter.com/Vu3bcsbzOp

— Liz Churchill (@liz_churchill10) November 13, 2024

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Jennings, a former aide to President George W. Bush, expressed his support for Hegseth on CNN Tuesday night, following Trump’s announcement of the unconventional cabinet pick.

Hegseth, an Army National Guard officer with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, was selected by Trump from a list of potential candidates.

His nomination drew mixed reactions, particularly due to his current role as a Fox News personality, leading some to question his suitability for such a critical role. Jennings, however, argued that Hegseth’s background and experience qualified him to address the challenges facing the Pentagon.

“Does anyone have confidence in the current leadership of the Pentagon and the way the defense situation has been operating for the last several years?” Jennings asked, highlighting recent controversies surrounding the Defense Department.

He cited several incidents, including the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, which he described as a “debacle,” and the lack of accountability following the chaotic exit.

Jennings also criticized other aspects of the Pentagon’s recent performance, referencing incidents such as the unauthorized surveillance balloons that entered U.S. airspace and a $300 million project intended as a public relations effort in Gaza, which, according to Jennings, resulted in the loss of an American service member.

“I’d say I’ve had just about enough of the so-called insiders running the Defense Department,” he added, underscoring his frustration with the established leadership.

During the segment, fellow CNN panelist and journalist Carl Bernstein attempted to counter Jennings’ views on the choice of Hegseth, suggesting that the position would typically go to an established defense figure within Washington circles.

Jennings, however, defended Hegseth’s nomination, suggesting that the recent election results indicated Americans’ desire for change.

“I hear all the criticism of him is that he’s not the expected Washington pick. And I’m just saying to you that the American people just voted against the expected Washington pick,” Jennings responded, pointing to Trump’s election win as a rejection of the status quo.

Jennings also emphasized Hegseth’s service record to bolster his defense, listing his credentials outside of television. “He’s got 20 years in service. Afghanistan, Iraq. Two Bronze Stars. Princeton, Harvard,” he said, highlighting Hegseth’s military accolades and educational background. “Yeah, he’s on TV, but so are the rest of us.”

HOLY SMOKES: @ScottJenningsKY just went scorched earth on Carl Bernstein and CNN panel defending Pete Hegseth —

— while excoriating current Pentagon leadership over their disastrous record.

“Does anyone have confidence in the current leadership of the Pentagon? And the… pic.twitter.com/dEs315grh4

— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) November 13, 2024

Hegseth, who is 44, remains actively connected to military service through the Minnesota Army National Guard’s Individual Ready Reserve, balancing this commitment with his high-profile role as a Fox News host.

As a father of four, he brings a range of experiences to the role, and Jennings pointed out that his background gives him unique insights into issues impacting service members and military families.

Hegseth’s nomination is one of several cabinet announcements made by the Trump transition team this week.

As a nontraditional choice, his selection underscores Trump’s preference for candidates outside the typical Washington establishment.

Other recent cabinet picks include figures from similarly varied backgrounds, as Trump builds his team for the administration.

Jennings’ defense on CNN represents broader sentiments among some Trump supporters, who have voiced their support for changes within the Defense Department’s leadership and a shift in strategy.

Trump’s decision to select Hegseth signals an unconventional approach that prioritizes alignment with Trump’s policies and vision for the military.

If confirmed, Hegseth will lead the U.S. defense strategy, an area where supporters expect a renewed focus on accountability and a shift from recent policies under current Pentagon leadership.

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