Pete Hegseth sworn in as defense secretary: 'An honor of a lifetime' --Hegseth secured his confirmation to lead the Pentagon on Friday after weeks of high political drama | 25 Jan 2025 | Pete Hegseth was sworn in as defense secretary Saturday morning, declaring it an "honor of a lifetime," and he promised to put America first by bringing peace through strength. Hegseth, 44, a former Minnesota National Guard officer who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, secured the role to lead the Pentagon following weeks of intense political drama surrounding his nomination and public scrutiny into his personal life. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, also thanked Vice President JD Vance, who oversaw the swearing-in ceremony and whose deciding vote on Friday got his nomination over the line. The Senate was deadlocked at 50-50 with three Republicans [deep-state dirt-bags] Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska; Susan Collins, R-Maine; and Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. -- joining the Democrats in opposing Hegseth's confirmation. The stalemate forced Vance to cast the tie-breaking vote, securing his confirmation.