Duval Times

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Pete Hegseth to lead the Department of Defense, citing his experience as a combat veteran and a change agent. Senator Rick Scott expressed his support for Hegseth, stating that he is the right person to rebuild the U.S. military from "woke to lethal."

Senator Scott, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and is a Navy veteran, criticized the Biden-Harris administration for prioritizing diversity quotas over recruiting strong individuals. He emphasized the need for leadership in the Pentagon that focuses on America's national interests.

Scott highlighted the Pentagon's failure to pass financial audits and called for accountability. He described Hegseth as a decorated combat veteran who understands the responsibilities of sending troops into battle.

Hegseth's post-military career includes leading Concerned Veterans of America (CVA), where he advocated for veterans' issues and pushed for reforms. Under his leadership from 2013 to 2016, CVA became known for its advocacy efforts, including addressing problems at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In 2014, whistleblowers exposed secret waitlists at VA hospitals that led to veterans dying while waiting for care. As governor of Florida, Scott worked with CVA to push for changes in veterans' healthcare access.

Scott praised CVA's efforts in proposing solutions like giving veterans access to private healthcare through VA-sponsored insurance. These initiatives aimed to reduce patient loads at VA facilities and offer more choices to veterans.

According to Scott, Trump's election was a mandate for change, and Hegseth's appointment aligns with this vision. The senator believes that under Trump's leadership and with Hegseth at the helm of the DoD, the U.S. military will regain its status as a formidable force globally.

Rick Scott represents Florida in the U.S. Senate and serves on several committees related to armed services.