Who Is SecDef Pete Hegseth’s Wife? What to Know About Jennifer Rauchet

From producing top-rated cable shows to standing proudly beside her husband at the White House, Jennifer Rauchet has been a steady presence in Pete Hegseth’s personal and public journey — now as his wife and partner in life. As Hegseth stepped into his role as U.S. Secretary of Defense in 2025, Rauchet remained by his side, balancing her work, family, and the responsibilities that come with being married to a high-profile political figure.

A Relationship That Began With Challenges

Their love story started under complicated circumstances. In 2017, Rauchet and Hegseth welcomed their daughter, Gwendolyn, while both were in the process of ending previous marriages. Hegseth had already been through two — first with Meredith Schwarz, his high school sweetheart, and later with Samantha Deering, with whom he shares children. Rauchet, meanwhile, was raising three kids of her own.

At the time, Rauchet worked as a producer for Fox & Friends, the very program Hegseth had begun co-hosting. When their relationship became public, she transitioned to producing Watters’ World to avoid professional conflicts. Despite the rocky beginning, their connection only grew stronger, leading to marriage in August 2019 at Trump National Golf Club in New Jersey. Their wedding drew notable guests including Donald Trump, Sean Hannity, and Ainsley Earhardt.

A Blended Family of Seven

Together, Pete and Jennifer have built a blended family that includes seven children — three from each of their past marriages and their daughter Gwendolyn. Family is central to their identity, often appearing at major moments in Hegseth’s career. During his swearing-in as Secretary of Defense, all seven children stood proudly alongside their parents, symbolizing the close bond they’ve cultivated

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A Partner in Public Life

Though Rauchet has never held a government position, she remains an active part of her husband’s public life. She frequently travels with him, attends events, and offers unwavering support during both victories and controversies. When past criticisms resurfaced in late 2024, Rauchet publicly defended her husband, posting:
“They won’t stop with Pete. It’s not him they’re after. It’s your values. We won’t back down.”

Her words reflected not only loyalty to her husband but also a shared commitment to their family’s beliefs and principles.

Standing Strong Together

Through career shifts, public scrutiny, and personal trials, Jennifer Rauchet and Pete Hegseth have built a marriage grounded in faith, loyalty, and patriotism. More than just a political couple, they’ve forged a united front — partners in both life and purpose, weathering challenges hand in hand while raising a large, close-knit family.