From working behind the scenes at Fox News to standing beside Pete Hegseth at the White House, Jennifer Rauchet has been a consistent force in his personal and professional life — now as his wife and partner in public service. As Hegseth took on the role of U.S. Secretary of Defense in 2025, Rauchet remained firmly by his side, both as a supporter and part of their close-knit family.
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Their relationship began under complex circumstances. Both were married to other people when they welcomed a daughter, Gwendolyn, in 2017. Hegseth had previously been through two marriages — first to high school sweetheart Meredith Schwarz, and then to Samantha Deering, with whom he shares children. Rauchet, too, was ending a marriage and raising three children of her own.
At the time, Rauchet was a producer for Fox & Friends, the same show Hegseth began co-hosting in 2017. After their relationship became public, she transitioned to producing Watters’ World to avoid a professional conflict. Their personal connection only deepened, and in August 2019, they were married at Trump National Golf Club in New Jersey, with high-profile guests like Donald Trump, Sean Hannity, and Ainsley Earhardt in attendance.
Together, Jennifer and Pete have built a blended family of seven children — three from each of their previous relationships and their daughter Gwendolyn. Their children are central to their lives and frequently appear at major milestones, including Hegseth’s swearing-in at the White House, where the entire family stood proudly together.
Despite never holding a formal government role, Rauchet plays a visible part in Hegseth’s public life — traveling with him, attending events, and supporting him through political highs and lows. In late 2024, when past controversies surrounding Hegseth resurfaced, Rauchet defended him publicly, writing:
“They won’t stop with Pete. It’s not him they’re after. It’s your values. We won’t back down.”
Her message was clear: no matter the headlines or criticism, she remains committed to their partnership, their family, and their shared beliefs. Together, they’ve weathered personal challenges and public scrutiny, grounded in faith, patriotism, and loyalty — forming not just a political team, but a strong, united family.
