By Katherine Tinsley
3:10pm PST, Feb 6, 2025
According to The American Prospect, Hegseth's contacts consisted of powerful figures in Washington, health executives and defense contractors.
A name being listed within the veteran's network doesn't necessarily mean he sent them money, as the app often automatically adds cellphone contacts.
Reddit users quickly dissected Hegseth's digital footprint.
"Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's shockingly not-private Venmo account shines a light into the shadowy corners of the supposedly antiestablishment warrior's completely establishment inner circle — and also illuminates the path forward for
Donald Trump's Defense Department," one user wrote.
Reddit influencers saw Hegseth's behavior as alarming.
"This was always the plan," one person wrote. "Line the pockets of millionaires and billionaires with tax dollars."
"There is no legitimate reason why defense contractors should be venmoing money to the Secretary of Defense," another stated. "Corruption in plain sight since they know there won't be any repercussions."
Despite critics' concerns, Hegseth's current wife, Jennifer Rauchet, celebrated her husband's confirmation on Sunday, January 26.
"An overwhelming heartfelt THANK YOU to all who have supported us. Our family, friends, warriors and prayer warriors," Rauchet said in an Instagram caption.
"I'm so proud of my husband and — like you — am excited to see all that's to come for our nation under this president and his well-chosen leaders," she continued. "It's a new chapter and God is the author — he writes the most beautiful stories."
Instagram users didn't hesitate to share their disappointment in Trump's cabinet pick.
"Cool. Remember the time you were asked if you sexually assaulted a woman and instead of saying 'no' you said 'I was cleared of all wrongdoing,' one user penned, referring to Hegseth telling the Senate Armed Services Committee he paid a woman $50,000 in a settlement after she accused him of abuse.
"Glad we have a smart person running things," they added.
Trump dismantled DEI programs in federal agencies, but social media users wondered if the president's team truly earned their positions.
"This is gonna go down as one of the worst hires ever," someone exclaimed.
"Didn't Earn It! Most UNQUALIFIED ever and now starting wars for NO REASON," another stated. "America is headed for disaster, destruction and dissolution!"
