The shifting sands of political appointments are once again in the spotlight, as President-elect Donald Trump considers reshuffling his choice for Secretary of Defense. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Pete Hegseth, the embattled nominee currently facing intense scrutiny, may be replaced by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The decision, though not finalized, underscores the tumultuous nature of Trump’s transition efforts.
Sources with direct knowledge tell me this story is nonsense and indicate they’ve had enough with games being played on Hegseth’s Defense nomination by Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.
One source said Graham, who has never found a war he didn’t… pic.twitter.com/yPyNf5gMvt
— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) December 4, 2024
Pete Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News commentator, entered the nomination process with credentials tailored to appeal to Trump’s base. However, allegations concerning both his personal and professional conduct have complicated his path to confirmation. While Hegseth’s military background resonates with many, the doubts swirling around him have prompted key Senate Republicans to hesitate. With their support essential for confirmation, Trump’s advisors are reportedly urging a reevaluation.
They tried the alcoholic thing with Kavanaugh. Hegseth will have his hearing but it's the same actors pushing almost exactly the same kind accusations they could not corroborate against Kavanaugh, which is why you don't do that. https://t.co/KuKChhX0xS
— Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) December 4, 2024
Governor Ron DeSantis, a prominent figure in Republican circles and a Navy veteran, has reemerged as a potential replacement. His military service in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 2004 to 2010 lends him a strong national security background. DeSantis also has a longstanding relationship with Trump, bolstered by his staunch support during Trump’s presidency. Initially considered for the defense role, DeSantis was passed over in favor of Hegseth. However, given recent developments, the governor’s name is back on the table.
I stand with Pete and his beautiful family in the face of these smears. @NBCNews did not contact my mom @RCamposDuffy or @willcain for their latest anonymously sourced hit piece because it is total bs. The state and their mouthpieces in the propaganda press hate Pete because they… pic.twitter.com/RpXLqKtqjh
— Evita Duffy-Alfonso (@evitaduffy_1) December 4, 2024
Hegseth is not the first Trump nominee to face headwinds during this transition. On the same day the Journal report surfaced, Chad Chronister withdrew his name from consideration for the DEA leadership role. This followed former Representative Matt Gaetz’s decision to bow out of the running for attorney general amid allegations of misconduct. The string of withdrawals highlights the challenges Trump faces in securing confirmations for top posts.
GOP senators CANNOT fold to these cheap anonymous attacks on @PeteHegseth.
If they do, they’ll just invite more and more Kavanaugh style attacks, for every potential disruptor. Everyone who represents REAL CHANGE.
And they’ll lose one hell of a SecDef in @PeteHegseth.
— Will Cain (@willcain) December 4, 2024