Hegseth's Jerusalem cross and ‘Deus Vult’ tattoos are rooted in the Crusades and have modern-day ties to far-right and white supremacist groups. Pete Hegseth, shown here in 2016.

Hegseth has pushed back against the accusations, calling objections to his tattoos — a Jerusalem Cross and the Latin phrase ...

President-elect Donald Trump’s new pick to lead the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth, is being blasted for tattoos that some allege are symbols of White supremacy and Christian nationalism ...

The inset shows his Jerusalem cross tattoo, which came up during the hearing. Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's choice for defense secretary, appears before the Senate Armed Services ...

Through this ministry, called The Cross We Carry, tattoo artist Tony Montana offers discounted cross tattoos to serve as a ...

Pete Hegseth has several tattoos, some referring to his time in the military and other to his faith, including a large Jerusalem cross tattoo. Hegseth said he was barred from working at Biden’s ...

Mr. Hegseth’s foes get jumpy over a tattoo on his chest. The Jerusalem Cross that Mr. Hegseth’s jackets and ties cover is, indeed, a Christian symbol – just like every cross.

Here are some things to know about the ancient Christian symbol, Hegseth’s tattoos, and why medieval history is playing such a large role in 21st-century politics.

What Does a Jerusalem Cross Tattoo Mean? During Tuesday's hearing, GOP Senator Kevin Cramer raised the issue of Hegseth's chest tattoo, asking him to clarify its significance.