WASHINGTON – President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering replacing his nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, according to a Dec 3 report by The Wall Street Journal.
Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, has faced growing opposition on Capitol Hill over allegations about his personal and professional conduct. Concerns among Trump allies suggest Hegseth may not secure the necessary Senate Republican support for confirmation.
DeSantis, a former Navy officer and earlier contender for the Pentagon post, is now being reconsidered for the role. His office and Trump’s transition team declined to comment on the reports.
The potential shake-up follows the withdrawal of two other Trump nominees in recent weeks: Chad Chronister, who stepped down from consideration to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Matt Gaetz, who withdrew from the Attorney General race amid scrutiny over personal allegations.
DeSantis, who lost the 2024 Republican presidential primary to Trump, served in the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps and has extensive military experience. However, the report indicates Trump may explore additional alternatives if Hegseth’s nomination collapses.