New Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said there will be more executive orders soon as President Trump seeks to reorganize and reshape the U.S. military.
Hegseth arrived at the Pentagon Monday morning, his first day since being narrowly confirmed by senators last week. He specifically mentioned Trump’s efforts to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the federal government.
“There are more executive orders coming that we fully support,” he said. “By eliminating DEI within the Department of Defense, we have restored the forces that were pushed aside by Kobe’s orders.
“This is happening fast,” he added.
Since taking office a week ago, Trump has signed executive orders, including reinstating service members discharged from the military for refusing to receive the Covid-19 vaccine. The White House said in the memo that he will receive his full salary with his previous rank and benefits.
The president also plans to sign an order banning transgender people from serving in the military.
Hegseth was confirmed Friday when Vice President Vance cast the tiebreaking vote after three GOP senators broke with the party and voted against him. He faced multiple claims of sexual abuse and drinking on the job.
he spoke passionately outside the Pentagon on Monday.
“The moment I’m here, I’m thinking about the men and women in Guam at Fort Benning and Fort Bragg, in Germany on missile defense sites and on aircraft carriers,” Hegseth said. “Our job is lethal, preparedness and war fighting.”
“We will be no better friends than our allies and stronger adversaries to those who wish to test us,” he added.
