Trump asking advisers if Hegseth should stay after midterm losses, sources say
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- President Trump is reportedly considering whether Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth should remain in his position following significant Republican losses in the midterm elections.
- Some White House aides anticipate blame for the GOP's defeat may fall on military leaders Adm. Brad Cooper and Gen. Dan Caine due to their roles in Iran war guidance.
- Vice President JD Vance attributed the Republican losses directly to the ongoing war, stating, "The reason we lost is the war."
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is being considered as a potential replacement for Hegseth, with a plan for Senate confirmation during the lame-duck session.
- White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly affirmed that President Trump has full confidence in Hegseth, highlighting his efforts against the Biden administration's focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the Pentagon.
