- Ashley Hinson endorsed Pete Hegseth as a "strong pick" for Defense Secretary in December 2024, praising his intent to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from the military and cut Pentagon bureaucracy (Gazette, 12/7/24).
- Hinson has consistently supported strengthening national security, including advocating for restarting border wall construction and backing the military and law enforcement, according to earlier statements and public endorsements (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, 6/7/22).
- In 2023, she called for accelerating U.S. military aid to Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of honoring commitments to international partners and maintaining discussions with the Biden administration to expedite support (Manchester Press, 4/12/23).
- Her national security stance signals an alignment with more hardline, anti-DEI policies in the military and a willingness to support disruptive change at the Pentagon.
- Hinson’s strong positions could be viewed as politically polarizing, especially regarding opposition to DEI and border policy, potentially making her vulnerable to criticism from those favoring more inclusive or diplomatic approaches.
December 2024: Ashley Hinson Called Pete Hegseth 'A Strong Pick' For Defense Secretary And Praised His Agenda According to Gazette, "Hinson, in a follow-up statement to The Gazette, called Hegseth 'a strong pick.' 'I was able to hear him speak earlier this week and think he will be a disruptor, end woke DEI infecting our military, and cut through the endless bureaucracy at the Pentagon,' Hinson said." [Gazette (Cedar Rapids, IA), 12/7/24]
2022: Letter Writer Claimed Ashley Hinson Supported Military and Police According to a letter to the editor published in Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, "National security is a top priority for Hinson by fighting to restart the border wall construction and give support for our military. Also, we in Iowa can depend on Hinson to support the police so we can be protected." [Letter to the Editor - Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, 6/7/22]
2023: Hinson Called For Accelerating U.S. Military Aid To Taiwan According to Manchester Press (Iowa), 'She said it was important the United States follow through on agreements made with Taiwan to provide military aid. "We have had some good discussions with the Biden administration as to how we can speed that up."' [Manchester Press (Iowa), 4/12/23]