The ‘Fox and Friends’ co-host married television producer Jennifer Rauchet in 2019
Pete Hegseth, best known as a host on Fox & Friends, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of Defense. While many Americans recognize him from television, his career spans far beyond the studio lights, encompassing military service, political advocacy, and even viral fame.
A military veteran, Hegseth served as a major in the Army with the Minnesota National Guard, completing tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. His service earned him numerous medals and accolades, showcasing his dedication and leadership in the field. After leaving the military, he continued his commitment to veterans through roles as executive director for Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America. These positions allowed him to influence policies affecting those who have served in uniform.
Hegseth’s television career on Fox & Friends brought him into the homes of millions, where he became a prominent voice on political and social issues. However, his time in the spotlight hasn’t been without controversy. He gained viral fame for an on-air stunt that led to legal trouble, sparking public debate about his actions.
The ‘Fox and Friends’ co-host married television producer Jennifer Rauchet in 2019
Pete Hegseth has been married to television producer Jennifer Rauchet since 2019. The couple tied the knot at the Trump National Golf Club in Colts Neck, New Jersey, solidifying their relationship in a high-profile venue. They share a daughter, Gwen, born in 2017, while Rauchet also has three children from a previous marriage.
Hegseth’s family life reflects a blend of connections, as he once shared in an interview with Nashville Christian Family, stating, “We are a family brought together by the grace of God. There are no ‘steps’ or ‘halves’ in the Hegseth clan.”
Before his marriage to Rauchet, Hegseth had been married twice. His first marriage to Meredith Schwarz ended in divorce in 2009, and his second, to Samantha Deering, ended in 2017 after the couple had three children together.
Hegseth and Rauchet’s relationship reportedly began while he was still married to Deering. According to journalist Brian Stelter’s book Hoax, their romance started when Rauchet, then a producer for Fox & Friends, was accused of showing favoritism by frequently featuring Hegseth on the program. Once their relationship became known, Rauchet was reassigned to a different show within the network.
When Hegseth isn’t making headlines for his career or personal life, he enjoys cheering for his favorite football team. In December 2023, he posted a photo on Facebook of himself at a bar, proudly sporting a Minnesota Vikings jersey and matching cap while giving a thumbs-up during a game. Football remains one of his favorite ways to unwind.
First and Second Marriage: Meredith Schwarz, Samantha Deering
Pete Hegseth entered his first marriage in 2004 with Meredith Schwarz. While their relationship seemed stable initially, it ended five years later in 2009.
Despite being a private split, their divorce marked the beginning of Pete’s much-talked-about personal journey.
In 2010, following his divorce, Pete married Samantha Deering. This relationship was more public and brought three children into his life.
However, their marriage encountered significant challenges that ultimately led to a second divorce. Reports, including those from The List, suggest infidelity played a role in the split. During their marriage, Pete had an affair that resulted in the birth of another child, signaling the end of his time with Samantha.
Pete’s current wife, Jennifer Rauchet, is a Fox News producer, and their relationship has been in the spotlight since its beginning. They were romantically linked while Pete was still married to Samantha, adding to public speculation.
A Father to Seven: Blending Families and Building Values
As a father to seven children, Pete’s family life is a blend of children from past relationships and his current marriage.
While he had three children with his first wife, Meredith, and none with his second wife, Samantha, he welcomed a child with Jennifer before their marriage. Jennifer, who also had children from a previous marriage, brought three additional children into their household.
Now co-parenting this large family, Pete and Jennifer work to foster unity and stability. Times Now News reports that they are committed to instilling resilience and strong values in their children, aiming to create a supportive environment for each child to thrive.
