The Liberty Score is a rating system assessing how closely an individual’s views align with core Libertarian principles. Scores are based on a 0-100 scale, with 100 representing a fully Libertarian position and 0 representing complete opposition to Libertarian values. The grading criteria include:
Each category will be scored, then averaged to form the individual’s overall Liberty Score, providing a clear snapshot of their alignment with Libertarian ideals. Grades are provided by AI
Liberty Score Assessment:
Personal Freedom (10/25): Pete Hegseth has supported policies that increase surveillance and data collection in the name of national security, which raises concerns about individual privacy rights.
Economic Freedom (10/25): While Hegseth advocates for free-market principles, he has supported certain government interventions, such as subsidies for specific industries, indicating a mixed stance on economic freedom.
Limited Government (10/25): His support for expansive national security measures and certain economic interventions suggests a preference for a more active government role in these areas.
Non-Intervention (10/25): Hegseth has consistently supported military interventions and a robust U.S. presence abroad, aligning with a more interventionist foreign policy stance.
Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and Army National Guard officer, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of Secretary of Defense. Known for his conservative views and vocal support of Trump’s policies, Hegseth has been a prominent commentator on military and national security issues. His military experience includes deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he received two Bronze Stars and two Army Commendation Medals. As the leader of advocacy groups like Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America, Hegseth has also championed issues important to veterans and service members. His nomination may face Senate scrutiny due to his limited senior military leadership experience.
The Secretary of Defense is responsible for overseeing the Department of Defense, managing military operations, readiness, and policy for a budget of approximately $850 billion and a workforce of nearly 3 million, including military and civilian personnel. This role involves advising the President on defense matters, directing defense policies, and ensuring the nation’s military strength. Hegseth’s nomination aligns with Trump’s “America First” approach, with a potential focus on reinforcing military readiness and reassessing international defense commitments.