What Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary Could Mean for South Carolina

As the Senate prepares to vote on Pete Hegseth’s nomination for Secretary of Defense, South Carolina’s military-heavy economy and communities could see significant changes if the controversial nominee is confirmed. Hegseth, a veteran and former Fox News commentator, has built a reputation for championing conservative causes and opposing "woke" policies in the military. His confirmation could bring shifts in policy that ripple across the state.

Changes to Military Installations

South Carolina is home to key military bases, including Fort Jackson, the U.S. Army’s largest basic training installation; Shaw Air Force Base, home to the 9th Air Force and Central Command support; and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Parris Island.

Hegseth’s policy priorities, which emphasize military readiness, could influence operations and training at these facilities. His opposition to initiatives that focus on diversity and inclusion may lead to changes in how personnel are recruited, trained, and promoted. These policy adjustments could have a lasting impact on the culture and functionality of these bases, where thousands of South Carolinians work and train.

Impacts on Education for Military Families

Hegseth has previously advocated for infusing patriotism and Christian values into education, and if confirmed, he would oversee the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA), which manages schools for children of military families. For South Carolina families stationed at or near these bases, potential curriculum changes in DODEA schools could influence how children are taught American history, civics, and social studies.

Such shifts could align with Hegseth’s broader vision of reversing what he perceives as progressive overreach in education. While some military families may welcome this, others might express concerns about the role of personal ideology in shaping educational policy.

Veterans’ Affairs and Healthcare Access

South Carolina has one of the largest veteran populations in the country, with more than 400,000 veterans calling the state home. Hegseth’s past support for privatizing aspects of veterans' healthcare has sparked debate. If such policies are implemented, they could alter how South Carolina veterans access healthcare services. Privatization could introduce more options but may also reduce funding for existing VA facilities, creating challenges for veterans who rely on these systems for care.

Ethical and Leadership Concerns

Hegseth’s nomination has not been without controversy. Allegations of misconduct during his military service, including reports of disobeying orders and inappropriate relationships, have raised questions about his ability to uphold discipline and enforce military standards. His public support for pardoning service members accused of war crimes has also fueled concerns about how he might oversee the military justice system.

For South Carolinians, whose communities are deeply intertwined with the military, these issues could shape the perception and morale of service members and veterans across the state.

Broader Implications

Beyond the immediate impact on military installations and veterans’ services, Hegseth’s confirmation could signal a broader shift in how the U.S. approaches national defense. His focus on combating perceived cultural shifts in the military could redefine priorities at the Pentagon, with potential consequences for military families, civilian employees, and contractors in South Carolina.

While the Senate vote looms, the policies and decisions that follow could reshape the role South Carolina plays in supporting the nation’s defense infrastructure. For a state where military service and defense spending are central to the economy and community identity, Hegseth’s leadership could leave a lasting mark.