Who Is Jennifer Rauchet Hegseth? All About Pete Hegseth’s Wife

January 2026 — Pete Hegseth, the U.S. Secretary of Defense and former Fox News host, frequently appears in headlines for his political views and national security role. Alongside his high-profile career, public attention has also followed his personal life. At the center of it today is his wife, Jennifer Rauchet Hegseth, a former media executive with a strong background in journalism.

Who Is Jennifer Rauchet?

Jennifer Rauchet is a former Fox News executive producer with years of experience in broadcast journalism. While she largely avoids the public spotlight, she has played an important behind-the-scenes role in media and, more recently, public life.

She holds a degree in journalism from Towson University and spent several years working at Fox News, producing popular shows such as Fox & Friends and Watters’ World.

According to reports, her role has expanded beyond television. She has reportedly accompanied her husband to high-level Pentagon and NATO meetings, reflecting her growing presence alongside Pete Hegseth in official circles.

How Jennifer Rauchet and Pete Hegseth Met

Jennifer Rauchet and Pete Hegseth met while working at Fox News, where Hegseth served as a co-host and contributor.

Their relationship became public in 2017, when Jennifer gave birth to their daughter, Gwen. At the time, both were reportedly married to other partners, which led to public scrutiny and controversy. Media reports suggested that Jennifer was later reassigned internally at the network.

Despite the attention and criticism, the couple continued their relationship.

Their “Make Marriage Great Again” Wedding

Jennifer Rauchet and Pete Hegseth married in 2019 at Trump National Golf Club in New Jersey.

The wedding drew attention after guests were seen wearing custom red hats reading “Make Marriage Great Again,” a playful variation of former President Donald Trump’s well-known slogan. Members of the Trump family were reportedly among the attendees.

Pete has often referred to Jennifer as his “rock”, crediting her support throughout his professional and personal journey.

A Blended Family of Seven Children

Together, Pete Hegseth and Jennifer Rauchet are raising a blended family of seven children.

• Jennifer has three children from a previous relationship

• Pete has three sons from his second marriage

• Their seventh child, daughter Gwen, was born in 2017

The couple has spoken publicly about prioritizing family despite demanding careers.

Pete Hegseth’s Previous Marriages

Before marrying Jennifer Rauchet, Pete Hegseth was married twice.

• He married Meredith Schwarz in 2004. The marriage ended in divorce in 2009 after Hegseth admitted to multiple affairs.

• He later married Samantha Deering in 2010. The couple had three sons together before separating in 2017.

His second marriage ended around the same time his relationship with Jennifer became public.

Life Today

Despite past controversies, Pete Hegseth has continued to advance in media and politics, eventually becoming U.S. Secretary of Defense.

Jennifer Rauchet remains a steady presence in his life, balancing privacy with growing public attention. Together, they appear focused on family, faith, and supporting one another through demanding public roles.