Part 3/10:
Trump’s choice deviates from previous solidly qualified military figures, such as retired Marine General Jim Mattis, whose tenure was marked by high-level strategic and policy decisions. Instead, Hegseth’s military credentials are rooted in National Guard service, and he lacks the traditional Pentagon experience, which could set the stage for a contentious confirmation process. Notably, due to rules requiring nominees to be out of uniform for seven years before confirmation, Hegseth will need a congressional waiver—similar to recent defense secretaries like Lloyd Austin and Jim Mattis.