President Trump said Thursday that he intends to keep Pete Hegseth in his role as Defense Secretary, but conceded that replacing him would be simpler before Democrats assume control of the Senate next year. In an interview with ABC News's Jonathan Karl, Trump stated he has “every intention” of retaining Hegseth in the Cabinet, pushing back on reports that he was reconsidering the Pentagon chief's future after the midterm elections.
Trump acknowledged receiving calls from individuals expressing concerns about Hegseth, but said he doesn't “understand why.” His remarks come amid swirling speculation about Hegseth's political ambitions and his potential departure from the administration.
Hegseth's political future
On Wednesday, Trump floated the idea that Hegseth would be “very popular” if he ran for the Tennessee Senate seat being vacated by Republican Marsha Blackburn, who is instead running for governor. Trump also praised Hegseth's performance, saying he is “doing a very good job.”
According to two sources familiar with the matter, Hegseth has expressed interest in Blackburn's seat since late October. A third source indicated that the Defense Secretary is quietly campaigning for the role, while another described his interest as an open secret. A Pentagon spokesperson, Kingsley Wilson, dismissed those reports as “beltway gossip by anonymous sources.”
Timing pressures from the midterm flip
The Democratic victory in Tuesday's midterms, which gives them control of the Senate, creates a tight window for any Cabinet confirmation. Under the current Republican majority of 53-47, Trump can afford to lose up to three GOP votes. But in the new Congress, Democrats will hold at least 54 seats, with a possible additional seat in Alaska still undecided.
That shift means any new Defense Secretary would face a much tougher confirmation battle after the new Congress convenes. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), expected to become Speaker, appeared to needle the situation on Thursday morning, posting on social media: “Why is Pete Hegseth still around?”
The political dynamics have intensified speculation about Hegseth's future, with some analysts linking his potential departure to broader Republican losses in the midterms. Trump's own redistricting push backfired, contributing to the Democratic House takeover.
If Hegseth were to leave, the administration would need to move quickly to nominate and confirm a successor before the Senate flips. The Democrats' multifront strategy to curb Trump's agenda will likely include scrutiny of any new defense nominee.
For now, Trump's public support for Hegseth appears firm, but the clock is ticking. Whether Hegseth stays or pursues a Senate bid, the coming weeks will be crucial for the Pentagon's leadership.
