I’m more qualified than Pete Hegseth for defense secretary. You might be, too.

In this satirical column, Mike Hicks humorously argues that he is more qualified to be U.S. Secretary of Defense than Pete Hegseth, the current nominee, despite acknowledging his own lack of qualifications for the role. Hicks compares their resumes, noting Hegseth’s TV exposure, education, think tank experience, and military service but highlights gaps in Hegseth’s qualifications, such as being fired from a think tank and lacking the depth of military leadership experience Hicks possesses.

He also critiques Hegseth’s alignment with ideologies like Christian nationalism, which Hicks argues are contrary to the Constitution, and questions Hegseth’s character based on personal scandals. Hicks concludes by emphasizing that Hegseth is the least qualified cabinet nominee in U.S. history and points out the alarming implications of such an appointment under President-elect Trump.