President Donald Trump says he has every intention of keeping Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, dismissing speculation about his possible removal. The president reaffirmed his strong support Thursday, telling ABC News that he intends to keep Hegseth despite growing leadership criticism.
Trump acknowledged receiving calls from people unhappy with Hegseth, but questioned why figures want the Pentagon chief replaced recently. His comments follow Democrats’ sweeping midterm victories, which shifted control of Congress and intensified scrutiny of the administration’s Iran war.
Republicans have faced criticism over the conflict, with Vice President JD Vance arguing that the war contributed to election losses. Hegseth has emerged as a central defender of the military campaign, making his position controversial among lawmakers and political observers.
Nevertheless, Trump publicly praised his defense secretary, describing his performance as strong and rejecting immediate calls for a leadership change. Earlier, the president told reporters that Hegseth was doing a very good job at the Pentagon this week.
Trump’s remarks come as Republican Representative Thomas Massie prepares to renew an impeachment resolution targeting the defense secretary next week. Massie has accused Hegseth of serious misconduct, while the Pentagon chief has rejected criticism and vowed to fight impeachment efforts.
Democrats are preparing investigations after taking control of both congressional chambers, raising the prospect of tougher oversight beginning in January. The political pressure places Hegseth under fresh scrutiny, particularly over decisions surrounding the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Trump also suggested that replacing Hegseth could become harder once Democrats assume control of the Senate early next year. Despite that political calculation, the president said he wants Hegseth to remain in office through the rest of his administration.
Meanwhile, Hegseth has signalled that he intends to continue leading the Pentagon and will not retreat from his responsibilities. The dispute highlights divisions within Republican ranks over the war, its political consequences and the administration’s national security leadership.
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