President-elect Donald Trump is confronting growing Republican resistance to his defense secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth, as new allegations threaten to derail the nomination. Trump is now considering Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the role, according to sources familiar with the discussions, signaling a potential shake-up in his Cabinet selection process.
Two sources confirmed that DeSantis, a Navy veteran and former lieutenant commander, is being seriously considered to replace Hegseth. "Trump talked to the governor and wants him to do it," a source familiar with the matter told NBC News. The former rivals have reportedly spoken directly about the position, marking a possible shift in Trump's strategy as the confirmation process grows increasingly contentious.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, has been under fire over allegations related to his treatment of women, drinking, and leadership conduct. Although he has denied the accusations, they have raised significant concerns among Senate Republicans, with several expressing reservations about his fitness to lead the Pentagon.
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham acknowledged the challenges Hegseth faces, calling some of the allegations "difficult." Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, a military veteran and potential alternative for the role, said she planned to have "a really frank and thorough conversation" with Hegseth about the claims. Other senators, including Jon Kennedy of Louisiana, emphasized the need for Hegseth to address the allegations directly.
Pressure on Hegseth intensified after reports surfaced of an email his mother allegedly sent in 2018, accusing him of dishonesty and poor treatment of women. While she later defended him, saying the email was written "in anger, with emotion," the revelation added to growing skepticism among lawmakers. Kennedy described the email as "probably the most serious" allegation Hegseth faces.
Republican senators have privately voiced concerns about the potential political fallout of supporting Hegseth, who can afford to lose only three GOP votes in the closely divided Senate. Trump must now decide whether to expend political capital to push the nomination forward or pivot to another candidate.
Among the alternatives under consideration are DeSantis, Senator Bill Hagerty of Tennessee, and Representative Mike Waltz of Florida. DeSantis, who recently ended his own presidential campaign and endorsed Trump, is viewed as a strong contender given his military background and political stature. Waltz, a former Green Beret, and Ernst, an Army Reserve and National Guard veteran, also bring extensive military experience to the table.
Hegseth's immediate future may hinge on his performance in an upcoming Fox News interview, which a senior Trump administration source described as "absolutely critical." The president-elect, known to value loyalty and media presence, will likely be watching closely to assess Hegseth's resilience under scrutiny. Timothy Parlatore, Hegseth's attorney, said the nominee is "not in any way considering withdrawing" and plans to confront the allegations head-on.
Trump's decision will also reflect his broader approach to assembling a Cabinet, balancing loyalty with public perception. The president-elect has faced criticism for nominating individuals who align with his agenda but may lack traditional qualifications. Similar controversies have already derailed other nominations, including Matt Gaetz's short-lived candidacy for attorney general.
As the confirmation process looms, Republican senators have called for heightened vetting of nominees. Maine Senator Susan Collins emphasized the need for an FBI background check to evaluate the allegations against Hegseth, along with a public hearing to address the concerns.
