President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering replacing his nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, according to reports from the Wall Street Journal and CBS News on Tuesday.
Hegseth’s nomination has faced difficulties in Congress due to controversies surrounding his personal and professional conduct. Trump’s allies are reportedly growing concerned that Hegseth may not withstand further scrutiny. DeSantis, a former Republican presidential contender who lost to Trump, had previously been listed as a potential candidate for the defense secretary role before Trump selected Hegseth.
DeSantis, who served as a Navy JAG officer from 2004 to 2010, is seen as a strong candidate. However, Trump may ultimately choose another individual if Hegseth’s nomination collapses, according to sources cited by CBS News.
Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News personality, would require the backing of Senate Republicans to secure confirmation. He has been accused of sexual assault, and a whistleblower report claims he was forced out of non-profit organizations due to personal misconduct, fund mismanagement, and allegations of intoxication on the job.
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Neither the Trump transition team nor DeSantis’ office responded to requests for comments on the reports. The Trump transition team also announced on Tuesday that they had entered into an agreement with the Department of Justice for security clearances and background checks of their nominees.
Hegseth’s potential withdrawal adds to the list of Trump’s picks for senior positions who have faced setbacks. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for attorney general earlier, amid allegations of sexual misconduct involving an underage girl. Additionally, Chad Chronister also withdrew from consideration to head the Drug Enforcement Administration this week.
