Trump Weighs Hegseth's Future After GOP Loses Both Chambers in 2026 Midterms

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Nov 4

Trump has asked advisers whether Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth should remain in office after Republicans’ heavy Tuesday losses handed Democrats strong majorities in both chambers, according to multiple sources.
The internal review centers on fallout from the Iran war: Vice President JD Vance said “the reason we lost is the war,” and some White House aides expect blame to hit Hegseth as well as CENTCOM chief Adm. Brad Cooper and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine.
Trump publicly denied any imminent move Wednesday, saying Hegseth was “doing a very good job,” while the White House said the president has “full confidence” in him.
Ron DeSantis is being floated by one source as a possible replacement who could be confirmed in the lame-duck session and take over after his Florida term ends Jan. 5.
Democrats were already pursuing Hegseth’s impeachment before the election, and that effort could gain force now that they control both chambers.