These journalists will say anything won’t they?
Bob Woodward, the veteran journalist known for his coverage of U.S. politics, recently expressed concerns about President-elect Trump’s appointments, suggesting that they could signal an attempt to consolidate power in the executive branch. In a discussion on MSNBC’s “Inside with Jen Psaki,” Woodward specifically criticized the nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, questioning whether the Fox News host has the necessary qualifications for the role.
Woodward argued that the Secretary of Defense needs to be someone with extensive knowledge of military operations and proven management experience. He expressed doubt that Hegseth, whose background is primarily in media, possesses the skills required to lead the Pentagon. According to Woodward, effective leaders in the position of Defense Secretary must understand the inner workings of both the military and the federal government, including how to wield power and make crucial decisions under pressure. Woodward, who has reported on numerous presidential administrations, emphasized that Hegseth’s lack of relevant experience would be a serious hindrance to the role.
Furthermore, Woodward speculated that Trump’s decision to select someone without the requisite expertise might be part of a broader strategy to centralize authority in the White House. He suggested that Trump could be attempting to recreate an “imperial presidency,” where power is concentrated solely in the hands of the president, minimizing the influence of other government leaders. In his view, this appointment and others like it reflect Trump’s desire to maintain control without sharing power with seasoned experts who might challenge his decisions.
In addition to his criticism of Hegseth, Woodward also questioned the nomination of former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard to head national intelligence, pointing out her limited experience in intelligence matters. For Woodward, these appointments raise troubling questions about the administration’s goals and whether they are in the best interests of the American people.