Donald Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Donald Trump publicly backed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday, calling his work “very good” and saying he was not considering replacing him. The remarks came after Republicans’ midterm losses and criticism of the administration’s handling of the Iran war. Spokesman Sean Parnell told The Washington Post that Hegseth was committed to serving through Trump’s term.
More context
Donald Trump publicly defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday, saying Hegseth was doing a “very good job” and that he was not considering replacing him. The remarks came amid questions about Hegseth’s future after Republican losses in the midterm elections. The administration has faced criticism over its handling of the Iran war, and some Republicans have questioned the military strategy and its political consequences.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell told The Washington Post that Hegseth was “100pc committed” to serving until the end of Trump’s term. The impeachment effort against Hegseth did not reach a vote before the House recessed for the midterm elections. The articles of impeachment accused him of exceeding his authority in military operations in Iran, Yemen, Venezuela and other regions, and of disregarding congressional oversight; these allegations have not been established as findings of wrongdoing.
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Reporting
- Forth (with Reuters) — Trump says Hegseth doing 'a very good job' as questions swirl about his future
- Hindustan Times — Massie says won't seek Hegseth's impeachment if Defense Secretary resigns, after midterms washout | Hindustan Times
- Forth — Trump Defends Hegseth Amid Iran War Fallout as Republicans Lose Congress
- independent.ie — Pete Hegseth becomes target for Trump’s midterm failure as questions swirl on his future
Verifier’s note
Forth.news carries Reuters reporting that Trump backed Hegseth and praised his performance; Hindustan Times and Independent.ie also report Trump's public defense amid questions about Hegseth's future. Forth.news has another result on the same claim, while New Indian Express discusses speculation about Hegseth's position without reporting this public defense.