Thursday May 1st, 2025 11:53PM

Sec. of Defense Pete Hegseth accepts challenge, hints at visiting UNG

By Will Daughtry News Reporter

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth could be visiting the University of North Georgia’s campus soon.

The reason? He was challenged by Rep. Rich McCormick from Georgia’s 7th District to do some physical training in a post on X by the university on Tuesday.

UNG President Michael Shannon was featured with McCormick in the video, with the representative calling the district the most lethal in the nation.

UNG is designated as the military college of Georgia by the state legislature and is one of only six federally designated senior military colleges.

“Come out, join us, take the challenge, bring it” McCormick said. 

In response, Hegseth posted “challenge accepted” on Wednesday. 

Hegseth’s office did not have a timeline or a statement in regards to the potential visit when reached out to by AccessWDUN.

UNG offered a statement on the challenge to AccessWDUN. 

“Our Corps of Cadets are the heart of America’s Corps — disciplined, driven and always ready for a challenge. We’re proud that their commitment and spirit are inspiring national leaders to take notice and step up,” Shannon said. “We welcome the opportunity to showcase what UNG is all about.”

The university said that no specific date has been scheduled and there has not been direct contact with Hegseth as of yet but are “excited to continue the conversation and make this happen.”

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