Trump’s Defense Pick Opposes Renaming Military Bases, Sparks Debate

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — President Donald Trump‘s newly confirmed Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has reignited the debate over renaming military installations previously named after Confederate figures. The Senate narrowly confirmed Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News commentator, on Friday, solidifying his role in the new administration.

Hegseth has publicly opposed renaming military bases like Fort Bragg, which was renamed Fort Liberty in 2023. During a June 2024 podcast, Hegseth argued that such changes disrupt generational ties to military history. “We should change it back, because legacy matters,” he said, referencing his own service at Fort Bragg and Fort Benning, now Fort Moore.

The renaming of Fort Bragg, which cost over $6 million, was part of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation, supported by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, mandated the removal of Confederate names from military assets. The House and Senate passed the bill with overwhelming majorities in December 2020.

Trump has consistently opposed the renaming efforts, telling supporters during a 2023 campaign stop in Fayetteville that Fort Bragg would retain its name under his administration. However, Dr. Christopher Cronin, a political science professor at Methodist University, noted that reversing the changes would require congressional approval and significant funding. “The president would ultimately need money for another name change, and Congress is in charge of the budget,” Cronin said.

Meanwhile, the Fort Bragg community continues to thrive, with local leaders like Troy Bird making a positive impact. Bird, a Western Harnett High School student and Eagle Scout, recently designed and built a custom podium for the Airborne & Special Operations Museum. His project, supported by Boy Scout Troop 713B and Home Depot, highlights the community’s resilience and dedication to service.

As the debate over military base names continues, the future of Fort Liberty remains a focal point for both historical preservation and progressive change.