Behind the Scenes with the Secretary of Defense: Essential Responsibilities in Troop Leadership, Armament Supervision, Presidential Guidance, and Working with Congress

The U.S. military functions as a united entity dedicated to protecting national interests, guided by significant leadership. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under scrutiny due to allegations of security violations, intensifying calls for his replacement. Evelyn Farkas, a former deputy assistant defense secretary, highlights the extensive duties involved, which encompass overseeing approximately 3.4 million personnel and a monumental annual budget nearing $2 trillion. The secretary plays a crucial role in shaping military operations, crafting defense strategies, and fostering essential ties with Congress, ensuring national defense readiness.