Trump considers Pete Hegseth's future as Pentagon leadership faces scrutiny
Republican losses in midterm elections and the Iran war have prompted discussions regarding the defence secretary's position.
US President Donald Trump is weighing whether to keep Pete Hegseth as defence secretary following Republican losses in the midterm elections, according to a report by the Times of India citing CBS News.
The discussions involve the political impact of the US war in Iran. Vice President JD Vance stated on X on Wednesday morning that the conflict was the reason for the Republican defeat.
Some White House aides believe senior military officials, including US Central Command head Brad Cooper and Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Dan Caine, could face scrutiny for their roles in advising on the Iran war. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been mentioned as a potential replacement for Hegseth.
Trump told reporters on Wednesday afternoon that Hegseth is doing a very good job and denied plans to replace him. When asked if Hegseth could take a vacant Senate seat in Tennessee, Trump said he would be popular but noted he had not heard such a suggestion.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly issued a statement saying Trump has full confidence in Hegseth. She also defended military operations in Iran and Venezuela and praised Hegseth for reversing the previous administration's focus on DEI and woke ideology.
Hegseth previously faced impeachment calls from Democrats. With Democrats expected to hold majorities in both chambers of Congress, the possibility of an impeachment effort may increase.
