Trump’s Potential Shift in Defense Secretary Pick Raises Questions About Hegseth’s Confirmation
As President-elect Donald Trump finalizes his Cabinet selections, reports suggest he may be reconsidering his choice for Defense Secretary. Pete Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, faces growing concerns regarding his ability to secure Senate confirmation. Multiple media outlets, citing unnamed sources, indicate that the Trump team is increasingly wary of Hegseth’s confirmation prospects, with some insiders even discussing potential replacements.
According to Casey Burgat, Director of the Legislative Affairs Program at George Washington University, the situation surrounding Hegseth’s nomination appears increasingly dire. “It’s looking increasingly unlikely,” said Burgat, referencing both Hegseth’s chances of staying on as Trump’s pick and his ability to navigate Senate confirmation. He noted that the growing circulation of replacement rumors signals deeper troubles for Hegseth, who has faced scrutiny since his nomination.
The former Fox News personality has come under fire for questions surrounding his experience, past personal conduct, and leadership capabilities. The media’s focus has been on Hegseth’s history of alleged mistreatment of women and reports of excessive drinking. Such concerns have led to doubts about his qualifications to lead the Department of Defense, a massive government agency overseeing national security.
Now, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Trump’s one-time presidential rival, has emerged as a potential replacement. DeSantis, a known political figure with military experience, would likely have an easier time securing Senate approval. His background includes serving as a legal advisor to SEAL Team 1 and overseeing a complex state government. Peter Loge, director of the School of Media and Public Affairs at George Washington University, argued that DeSantis would have a smoother confirmation process due to his military experience and executive leadership as governor.
“DeSantis is a known commodity,” Loge said. “He’s served with distinction in the military, and he’s a governor who has run things. He’s much more likely to pass Senate scrutiny.”
The tight margin in the Senate poses a significant challenge for Hegseth. Without support from Senate Democrats, Trump can afford to lose the backing of just three Republican senators for Hegseth’s confirmation to fail. Experts speculate that Hegseth’s chances are growing slimmer, especially given the personal and professional issues surrounding his nomination.
“If you have to ask your mom to go on TV to plead your case, you’re not in a good place,” Loge remarked, referencing an interview in which Hegseth’s mother defended his character amid controversy.
Despite the growing concerns, Hegseth remains publicly supported by the Trump campaign. Speaking to the press, Hegseth expressed confidence, stating, “I spoke to the President-elect this morning. He said keep going, keep fighting. I’m behind you all the way.”
Burgat, however, anticipates that Hegseth may ultimately step down from the nomination to avoid further embarrassment, leaving Trump to choose a new candidate without publicly rescinding his pick.
The question remains whether DeSantis would accept the role if offered. While it is unclear if he would agree to serve as Secretary of Defense, experts note the potential political benefits. Serving in a prominent Cabinet position could position DeSantis for another presidential bid, potentially in 2028.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hegseth’s confirmation, political analysts do not believe this shift in Trump’s Cabinet picks will significantly harm his momentum. Loge pointed out that Trump’s history of replacing Cabinet nominees, such as the recent substitution of his attorney general pick, has not derailed his administration’s progress.
As Trump moves closer to taking office, it remains to be seen whether Hegseth will retain his role as Defense Secretary or if Governor DeSantis will step in to fill the position, potentially signaling a shift in Trump’s Cabinet strategy.
