Pete Hegseth for 2028: Why This Combat Vet Should Carry the MAGA Torch

In this engaging episode, host Sam welcomes retired U.S. Army veteran and military educator Paul Darling for a wide-ranging conversation covering his 27-year military career, his podcast War 102 (which breaks down strategy, doctrine, and the theory of warfare for civilians), and his support for the Real Plastic Heroes project—high-quality, American-made toy soldiers honoring Global War on Terrorism veterans. The discussion dives deep into 2028 presidential politics, with Paul making a strong case for Pete Hegseth as the ideal MAGA successor due to his combat experience, academic credentials, loyalty to Trump, and broad appeal, while critiquing other frontrunners like JD Vance, Marco Rubio, and Ron DeSantis. They also explore media bias, past elections, cultural shifts, foreign policy challenges with Iran, and the importance of understanding war to hold leaders accountable. Thought-provoking, candid, and often humorous, this episode offers sharp political insights and a call for informed citizenship.- Find Paul’s podcast, War 102, on your favorite platform! - Also, check out https://realplasticheroes.com - To find all my deals, visit: https://mydeals.page/7fu7 - Want to be a guest on Shades of Jade Podcast? Send Samantha Jade Wooldrik a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/shadesofjadepod - Music: Mozart Horn Concerto No. 4, K. 495 – III. Rondo: Allegro vivace, performed by Dennis Brain (public domain recording from Archive.org)