Abby Huntsman Questions Pete Hegseth's Qualifications on The View

During a recent episode of *The View*, Abby Huntsman faced intense questioning from co-host Sunny Hostin regarding the qualifications of Pete Hegseth for the role of Secretary of Defense. Huntsman, who co-hosted the show from 2018 to 2020 and returned briefly while Alyssa Farah Griffin is on maternity leave, was pressed multiple times by Hostin to directly address whether she believes Hegseth is fit for the position amid ongoing discussions about the Iran war.

The Independent

Huntsman initially described Hegseth as “a smart guy” and “a perfect Fox News host,” but avoided a direct answer to Hostin's inquiries about his qualifications. After being asked five times, Huntsman ultimately stated, “I don't think Pete is qualified for the job.” This admission came after a series of exchanges where Hostin emphasized the seriousness of the Secretary of Defense role, contrasting it with Hegseth's media persona.

Mediaite

Huntsman expressed broader concerns about the current administration's approach to military strategy, stating, “In the Middle East, we’re very good at getting into wars and very bad at getting out of wars.” She criticized the administration for treating serious geopolitical issues with a lack of gravity, likening their strategy to “checkers when the rest of the world is playing chess.” This sentiment was echoed by co-host Sara Haines, who declared, “I’ll go ahead and say Pete Hegseth is not qualified to run the Department of Defense,” which was met with applause from the audience.

Mediaite

Throughout the segment, Huntsman highlighted her apprehensions about the current leadership, suggesting that President Donald Trump tends to appoint individuals who align with his views rather than those with the requisite expertise. She remarked, “Presidents usually pick people in these roles that are experts at what they do,” implying that Hegseth's appointment may not align with this standard.

Mediaite

While Huntsman’s comments indicate a lack of confidence in Hegseth's qualifications, the segment did not provide a comprehensive view of Hegseth's background or the administration's rationale for his appointment. There was no mention of any official responses from the White House regarding Huntsman's statements or the ongoing discussions about military leadership.

Mediaite

• “I don't think Pete is qualified for the job.” — Abby Huntsman, Co-host of *The View*

The Independent

• “HUNTSMAN: I’m concerned because in the Middle East, we’re very good at getting into wars and very bad of getting out of wars.” — Abby Huntsman, Co-host of *The View*

Mediaite

• “I’ll go ahead and say Pete Hegseth is not qualified to run the Department of Defense.” — Sara Haines, Co-host of *The View*

Mediaite

The discussion on *The View* reflects ongoing concerns about military leadership and the qualifications of individuals in key government roles, particularly in the context of current international conflicts.

Mediaite