Image Credit: CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag Pete Hegseth has long been a fixture in public life - as a former Fox News co-host, author, veteran, and outspoken conservative. But since ascending to the role of Secretary of Defense in January 2025, he's found himself under levels of scrutiny few in his position face. In recent months, the 45-year-old has been mired in controversy over revelations that he participated in unauthorized Signal messaging groups used to share sensitive military information. According to The Atlantic and The New York Times, he disclosed operational details of U.S.