Pete Hegseth is a 44-year-old American television host, author, and former military officer, with a whopping net worth of $3 million. He is widely recognized for his role as a co-host on Fox & Friends Weekend.
Over the years, he has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and an advocate for military and veteran affairs. On the personal front, Pete Hegseth is married to Jennifer Rauchet and the couple shares a blended family of seven children.
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Who is Pete Hegseth?
Pete Hegseth is a well-known television personality, author, and political commentator recognized for his work on Fox News. With a background in military service and conservative advocacy, he has built a reputation as a strong voice on political and national security issues.
His military experience shaped his perspectives on foreign policy and national defense, which he frequently discusses in his broadcasts. He has received several military awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, for his service.
Hegseth has been deeply involved in veteran advocacy. He previously held leadership positions in organizations like Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America, where he worked to promote policies supporting military personnel and veterans.
His activism has influenced national discussions on defense and veteran affairs. As an author, Hegseth has written books focusing on American values, leadership, and conservative principles.
His works often criticize what he sees as the decline of traditional values in the U.S. and advocate for a return to patriotism and strong national identity. His books have resonated with a conservative audience, further establishing his influence.
Through his television appearances, writings, and public speeches, he continues to shape conversations on key political and cultural issues.
Early Life of Pete Hegseth
Pete Hegseth was born on June 6, 1980, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. His full name is Peter Brian Hegseth. He is an American citizen. His ethnicity is Caucasian and follows Christian religion.
His parents are Brian Hegseth and Penelope Penny Hegseth. He has two siblings Philip Hegseth and Nathaniel Hegseth. His father, Brian, worked as a basketball coach in Minnesota. He trained high school teams for many years before retiring in 2019.
His mother, Penny, is an executive business coach. She has worked with Republican leadership programs, teaching women in politics. Hegseth grew up in Forest Lake, Minnesota. He attended Forest Lake Area High School.
Hegseth played football and basketball and set school records in three-point shooting. He was named all-conference twice and earned all-state honors in his senior year. He graduated in 1999 as valedictorian.
The school later inducted him into its hall of fame. After high school, he studied at Princeton University and majored in politics. He was active in student journalism and wrote for The Princeton Tory. His time at Princeton prepared him for his future in media and politics.
Pete Hegseth Age
Pete Hegseth is 44 years old as of 2024 because he came into the world on June 6, 1980, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. According to his birthday, his zodiac sign is Gemini.
Military Service and Early Career
Pete Hegseth’s professional journey began with his service in the Army National Guard after graduating from Princeton University in 2003 with a degree in politics. He began his military career as an infantry officer. Early on, he showed strong leadership skills.
In 2004, he was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. There, he was responsible for overseeing detainee operations. This assignment gave him firsthand exposure to the complexities of U.S. military detention policies and counterterrorism efforts.
In 2005, Pete Hegseth served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His deployment took him to both Baghdad and Samarra. He carried out his duties in a challenging and intense combat environment.
Hegseth’s service earned him several commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Army Commendation Medal. His military service extended into Afghanistan in 2011, when he was deployed to the Kunar Province.
Hegseth’s experiences in Afghanistan reinforced his belief in strong national defense policies and the necessity of aggressive military strategies to counter global threats.
Veteran Advocacy and Political Aspirations
While still serving in the military, Hegseth became a prominent advocate for pro-military policies and veterans’ rights. In 2007, he became the executive director of Vets for Freedom.
In this role, he actively participated in political discussions. He lobbied members of Congress and communicated with the American public. His efforts focused on advocating for military intervention and securing increased defense funding.
In 2012, Hegseth sought political office by running for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota as a Republican. However, he withdrew before the primary election.
Despite this setback, he remained a strong voice in conservative political circles, particularly on issues concerning veterans’ healthcare, military funding, and national security.
After his Senate campaign, Hegseth took on the role of CEO at Concerned Veterans for America (CVA). He focused on pushing for reforms within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
His advocacy centered on privatization efforts aimed at expanding healthcare options for veterans. His leadership at CVA aligned with conservative and libertarian-leaning policies, which showed reducing government control over veterans’ healthcare.
Transition to Conservative Media and Influence
By 2014, Hegseth transitioned into a media career and become a Fox News contributor. His strong conservative viewpoints and deep military background made him a frequent commentator on national security and defense issues.
Over time, he became a co-host on Fox & Friends, where he regularly defended pro-Trump policies, hardline immigration enforcement, and increased military spending.
During Donald Trump’s presidency (2017–2021), Hegseth emerged as one of the president’s most vocal allies in the media. He was briefly considered for the position of Secretary of Veterans Affairs in 2017, but was ultimately passed over.
Nonetheless, he remained an influential figure in Trump’s circle, advocating for foreign policy assertiveness and military expansion. His media presence allowed him to shape Republican defense and security narratives, particularly regarding China, the Middle East, and military readiness.
Nomination and Confirmation as Secretary of Defense
Following Trump’s 2024 re-election, Hegseth was nominated to serve as the Secretary of Defense after Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton declined the role.
His nomination was highly controversial, as critics cited his lack of Pentagon leadership experience and previous allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement, and excessive partisanship.
Despite these concerns, Trump and his allies strongly defended Hegseth, positioning him as a patriotic military leader who would restore strength to the U.S. armed forces.
His confirmation was one of the most hotly contested in U.S. history, ultimately passing the Senate with a 51–50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.
Pete Hegseth Book
Some of Pete Hegseth books are mentioned below:
- The War on Warriors
- American Crusade
- Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes
Pete Hegseth Shows
Some of Pete Hegseth shows are listed below:
- The Miseducation of America
- Fox & Friends Saturday
- Outnumbered
- The Life of Jesus
- Battle in the Holy Land
Pete Hegseth Net Worth
Pete Hegseth has an estimated net worth of $3 million as of 2025. He earns money through multiple streams, primarily from his career in media, politics, and publishing.
As a Fox News contributor and co-host of “Fox & Friends”, he receives a substantial salary for his on-air role, providing political commentary and military analysis.
Additionally, he has authored several books, including American Crusade and In the Arena, generating revenue through book sales, speaking engagements, and promotional deals.
His close alignment with conservative politics also makes him a sought-after speaker at political conferences and events, further boosting his income.
Beyond media and publishing, Hegseth has held leadership positions in nonprofit advocacy organizations, such as Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America (CVA), where he likely earned salaries or stipends.
He has also been involved in political consulting and lobbying efforts, particularly on veterans’ affairs and military policies. As Secretary of Defense, he now receives a government salary, further adding to his financial portfolio.
Pete Hegseth Wife and Children
First Marriage to Meredith Schwarz
Pete Hegseth’s first marriage was to Meredith Schwarz. They had known eachother since high school. The two were high school sweethearts and eventually tied the knot in 2005.
Their wedding took place at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota, a grand and traditional setting for their union. At the time, Hegseth was a young and ambitious man beginning his professional and military career. Meredith, on the other hand, pursued a career in business and finance.
Despite their seemingly strong foundation, their marriage faced significant challenges. Some reports indicate that Hegseth engaged in multiple affairs during their time together, which ultimately led to the breakdown of their relationship.
In December 2008, Meredith filed for divorce after learning of his infidelity. Their divorce was finalized in 2009 by marking the end of their five-year marriage.
The split was reportedly difficult, as they had shared a deep history, but it became clear that their differences and Hegseth’s personal choices had created an irreparable divide.
Second Marriage to Samantha Deering
Following his divorce from Meredith Schwarz, Pete Hegseth began a relationship with Samantha Deering. The two met while he was working with Vets for Freedom, an organization that supported pro-military policies and veterans.
Their relationship progressed quickly, and in 2010, they got married. Samantha Deering and Pete Hegseth’s marriage lasted for seven years, and during this time, they built a family together.
They had three children Gunner, Boone, and Rex who became the center of their lives. Hegseth often spoke about the importance of fatherhood and his dedication to his children.
However, their marriage was not without challenges. In 2016, it was revealed that Hegseth had been having an extramarital affair with Jennifer Rauchet, an executive producer at Fox News.
This affair became public knowledge, and it placed a significant strain on his marriage to Samantha. By 2017, their relationship had reached a breaking point, and they filed for divorce.
The split was highly publicized, particularly because of the circumstances surrounding his affair. Despite the separation, Hegseth remained involved in his children’s lives continuing to co-parent with Samantha.
Third Marriage to Current Wife Jennifer Rauchet
After his divorce from Samantha Deering, Pete Hegseth’s relationship with Jennifer Rauchet became more public. Rauchet is a well-known executive producer at Fox News and has worked on major programs, including Fox & Friends.
Their romantic involvement began while he was still married to Samantha, which caused controversy when it was revealed. By 2017, Jennifer and Pete welcomed their first child together, a daughter named Gwen.
Their relationship continued to grow, and on August 16, 2019, they got married in an elegant ceremony at Trump National Golf Club Colts Neck in New Jersey.
Their wedding was attended by close friends, family, and high-profile political figures, including members of the Trump family. The venue, associated with former President Donald Trump, reflected Hegseth’s strong political connections and conservative values.
Jennifer Rauchet also has three children from her previous marriage Jackson, Luke, and Kenzie. Together, she and Pete Hegseth have built a blended family.
Their marriage has been marked by their shared professional interests, as both are deeply involved in conservative media. They frequently appear together in public events and social media.
Peter Hegseth Children
Pete Hegseth is a proud father to seven children five sons and two daughters whom he shares with his current wife, Jennifer Rauchet, as well as his second wife, Samantha Deering.
His blended family includes biological children from his marriages and stepchildren from Jennifer Rauchet’s previous relationship.
Despite his demanding career as a television personality and political commentator, Hegseth frequently expresses his deep love and devotion to his children.
Children with Samantha Deering
During his second marriage to Samantha Deering, Pete Hegseth welcomed three sons: Gunner, Boone, and Rex.
Gunner Hegseth is the eldest of Pete and Samantha’s children. He is being raised with strong conservative and patriotic values, much like his father. Hegseth has frequently shared moments with Gunner on social media.
Gunner also has an interest in sports and is being raised with a strong sense of discipline and faith. Boone Hegseth is the second son, is growing up alongside his brothers in a structured and faith-oriented household.
Pete often shares his experiences as a father, expressing his desire to instill core values such as hard work, patriotism, and resilience in his children. Boone, like his siblings, is encouraged to take part in outdoor activities, which are a significant part of the family’s lifestyle.
Rex Hegseth is the youngest son from Pete’s marriage to Samantha, is still growing up and is often seen in family pictures shared by his parents.
Despite his parents’ divorce, Pete remains involved in his children’s lives, ensuring that he is an active presence in their upbringing.
Daughter with Jennifer Rauchet
After his relationship with Samantha ended, Pete Hegseth started a new chapter with Jennifer Rauchet. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Gwen Hegseth, in 2017.
Gwen is Pete’s youngest biological child and his only daughter. He often shares photos and affectionate moments with her on social media. Gwen has been raised in a conservative, faith-based environment, and her father takes great pride in being an engaged and loving parent to her.
Stepchildren from Jennifer Rauchet’s Previous Marriage
Through his marriage to Jennifer Rauchet, Pete became a stepfather to three children from her previous relationship: Jackson, Luke, and Kenzie. Although they are not his biological children, Hegseth treats them as his own and has embraced his role as a stepfather.
The children live with Pete and Jennifer in their home, and they form a close-knit blended family. Pete has spoken about the joys and challenges of raising a large family.
Hegseth often mentioning how he and Jennifer work together to ensure that all seven children feel loved and supported. Through his public appearances and social media posts, it is clear that his children are a significant source of joy and purpose in his life.
Social Media Appearance
Pete Hegseth maintains an active presence on social media, primarily on platforms like Instagram, X, YouTube, and Facebook, where he shares insights into his personal life, political views, and professional endeavors.
His social media accounts often feature patriotic content, family moments, and behind-the-scenes glimpses from his work at Fox News. With a significant following, he engages with his audience by discussing conservative values, faith, and military support.
Pete Hegseth Controversies
Pete Hegseth has been at the center of multiple controversies throughout his career, often due to his outspoken political views, public statements, and actions on television.
As a conservative commentator and former military officer, he has taken strong stances on national security, immigration, and media bias.
The Handwashing Controversy
In 2018, Hegseth stirred public debate when he claimed on Fox & Friends that he had not washed his hands in over ten years. He stated that he did not believe in germs because they were invisible to the naked eye.
While he later clarified that his remarks were meant as a joke, the statement went viral and sparked discussions about hygiene and public health responsibility. Critics argued that such comments were irresponsible, especially given his platform as a media personality.
The Axe-Throwing Incident
One of the most widely discussed controversies involving Hegseth occurred in 2015 during a live broadcast on Fox & Friends. As part of a segment, he threw an axe at a wooden target, but the throw went off course and struck a West Point drummer standing nearby.
The incident caused a public outcry over safety precautions on live television. Fortunately, the drummer was not seriously injured, but the moment remains one of Hegseth’s most infamous on-air mishaps.
Political Bias and Trump Administration Ties
Hegseth has faced criticism for his close ties to former President Donald Trump and his unwavering support for Trump’s policies. He was a vocal advocate for strong border security, military expansion, and criticism of mainstream media.
His open support for Trump led to allegations of bias in his reporting, with some accusing him of blurring the lines between journalism and political advocacy.
At one point, he was considered for a leadership role in the Department of Veterans Affairs sparking concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Election Fraud Claims
Following the 2020 U.S. presidential election, Hegseth became a vocal proponent of election fraud claims, frequently echoing Trump’s assertions that the election was rigged or stolen.
His statements contributed to widespread debates over media responsibility and election integrity. While his supporters praised him for speaking out, critics accused him of spreading misinformation and fueling distrust in the electoral process.
Public Response and Legacy
Despite facing backlash for his controversies, Hegseth remains a significant figure in conservative media. His military background, direct speaking style, and strong political views continue to resonate with many Americans.
While some view him as a fearless truth-teller, others see him as a divisive figure who pushes partisan narratives. Regardless of perspective, his influence in political discourse remains undeniable.
Pete Hegseth Height and Weight
Pete Hegseth stands at an approximate height of 6 feet which is equal to 183 centimeters or 1.83 meters. His tall and athletic build reflects his background as a former military officer.
His weight is estimated to be around 77 kg which is equal to 170 pounds, which aligns with his well-maintained physique. As he has served in the military and remains active, he appears to prioritize staying in shape.
Hegseth has a rugged yet polished look, with short, dark brown hair that is often neatly styled. His striking eyes add to his sharp features, and he frequently sports a clean-shaven face or light stubble.
Pete Hegseth Tattoo
Pete Hegseth has several tattoos, each carrying deep personal, historical, or religious significance. Across his right bicep, he has the phrase Deus Vult, a Latin expression meaning “God wills it,” historically associated with the Crusades.
On his right breast, he bears a tattoo of the Jerusalem cross, symbolizing Christianity’s historical presence in the Holy Land. Additionally, his right forearm features the words We the People, a tribute to the U.S. Constitution, along with a cross and sword inscribed with the Hebrew word Yeshua, meaning Jesus.
On his back, Hegseth has the coat of arms of the 187th Infantry Regiment, an emblem of his military service, along with its motto Ne Desit Virtus, which translates to Let Valor Not Fail.
Another prominent tattoo he has is a depiction of Join, or Die, a political cartoon by Benjamin Franklin that represents unity among the American colonies. His tattoos reflect his commitment to faith, patriotism, and military heritage.
Conclusion
In Conclusion, Pete Hegseth has established himself as a prominent figure in conservative media, military advocacy, and political commentary.
His career, marked by military service, television appearances, and authorship, reflects his strong convictions and dedication to national security and American values.
His impact in the media and political landscape ensures that he remains a significant and recognizable figure in American conservatism.
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