U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has selected Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host, author, and military veteran, as his nominee for defense secretary.

Hegseth, 44, who has served in Afghanistan and Iraq, would lead the world’s most powerful military in his first political role. Announcing the choice on Tuesday, Trump praised Hegseth as “tough, smart, and a true believer in America First.”

The announcement came alongside Trump’s selection of another political newcomer, billionaire Elon Musk, for a role focused on government cost-cutting.

Trump’s administration is taking shape following his recent election victory, with Hegseth joining a wave of security-related picks, including John Ratcliffe as his nominee to lead the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Hegseth will face key decisions on military support for Israel amid its Gaza campaign and aid to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Trump has signaled a desire to reduce U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, frequently criticizing the Biden administration’s spending on Ukraine during his campaign.