If he is confirmed as Secretary of Defense, his annual salary will be about $270,000. If he continues to host the military program on Fox News, his annual salary is $4.6 million. According to reports, Trump called him shortly after winning the election. Trump was straightforward: Would you be willing to be my new cabinet's Secretary of Defense? He replied immediately: Yes, sir. Trump then asked: What if the confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense does not go through, and you lose your position as a Fox News host? You would be a person without a job and income. Would you regret it? He answered firmly: I do not regret it; I love this country. This is Hegseth, a father of seven children and a famous host. At Trump's call, he decisively agreed, saying he loves America.