Pete Hegseth Biography
Full Name: Peter Brian Hegseth
Date of Birth: June 6, 1980
Age: 45 years old (as of 2025)
Birthplace: Forest Lake, Minnesota, United States
Nationality: American
Occupation: Television Host, Author, Former Military Officer, Political Commentator
Famous For: Co-hosting Fox & Friends Weekend on Fox News
Early Life & Education
Pete Hegseth was born and raised in Forest Lake, Minnesota. He attended Forest Lake Area High School, where he excelled in academics and athletics.
He later enrolled at Princeton University, graduating in 2003 with a degree in politics. At Princeton, he was the editor of The Princeton Tory, a conservative student publication.
He also earned a Master of Public Policy degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard Univer
After Princeton, Hegseth joined the U.S. Army National Guard as an infantry officer.
- Served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and at the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.
- Held the rank of Major.
- Received several military honors, including the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Iraq.
His military background became the foundation of his career as a political and media personality, often speaking on issues concerning veterans and U.S. foreign policy.
Media & Political Career
- Vets for Freedom: Served as executive director of this political advocacy group supporting the U.S. military mission in Iraq.
- Concerned Veterans for America: Worked as CEO, pushing for reforms in the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Fox News: Joined as a contributor and quickly became one of the network’s most recognizable personalities.
- Currently co-hosts Fox & Friends Weekend.
- Known for his strong conservative viewpoints, support for former President Donald Trump, and commentary on military and cultural issues.
Books
Pete Hegseth has authored several books reflecting his conservative ideology:
- In the Arena (2016)
- American Crusade (2020)
- Battle for the American Mind (2022, co-authored with David Goodwin) – became a New York Times bestseller.
Personal Life
- Marriages:
- First married Meredith Schwarz (2004–2009).
- Then married Samantha Deering (2010–2017), with whom he has three children.
- Married Jennifer Rauchet (Fox Nation executive producer) in 2019, and they share children together.
- Children: Pete is a father of seven children.
He is an outspoken Christian, often emphasizing the role of faith and patriotism in his life and work.
Trivia
- A staunch supporter of conservative politics and American nationalism.
- Known for being outspoken and sometimes controversial in his statements.
- Lives in the United States with his wife and children, balancing his media work with family and faith.