Trump affirms support for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly affirmed his confidence in Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, dismissing speculation that he intends to replace him. Trump stated that Hegseth is doing a "very good job," directly contradicting recent reports from news outlets including CBS that suggested the President was consulting advisors about a potential removal.

The speculation regarding Hegseth's position emerged in the aftermath of significant losses sustained by the Republican Party in the recent midterm elections held on November 3, 2026. Vice President J.D. Vance and President Trump have attributed these electoral setbacks to the public's negative reaction to the ongoing war against Iran. While CBS reported earlier that Trump was actively considering a personnel change, journalists from ABC News later cited a direct communication with the President, where he explicitly stated his intention to keep the Secretary in his post.

Despite the intense political pressure and media scrutiny following the election results, the administration maintains that Hegseth will remain in office. Trump expressed confusion regarding the persistent rumors and calls for the minister's resignation, signaling that no transition is currently planned for the Department of Defense.