Special Poll
President-elect Donald Trump is reevaluating his options for Secretary of Defense as Pete Hegseth’s nomination faces mounting criticism, particularly from within the Republican Party. Concerns have been raised about past allegations of misconduct, prompting Trump to explore other potential candidates, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has reportedly been approached about the role and is said to be seriously considering it.
Trump and DeSantis recently spoke in Florida, though it remains unclear if the defense secretary position was a topic of their conversation. DeSantis, a former Navy officer and Bronze Star recipient, has been an outspoken critic of diversity initiatives in the military, aligning with Trump’s vision of eliminating “woke” policies in the armed forces. If selected, DeSantis would represent a surprising turn in their relationship, given the heated rivalry during the 2024 Republican primary.
Meanwhile, Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, is determined to defend his nomination despite allegations of sexual misconduct and excessive drinking. He has described the accusations as a smear campaign and continues to meet with senators to garner support. Hegseth’s mother and wife have also joined the public effort, appealing to lawmakers and media outlets to reconsider his candidacy.
The path forward for Hegseth remains uncertain, as key Republican senators, including Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Joni Ernst, have not yet committed to supporting his nomination. Losing the support of just three GOP senators could jeopardize his confirmation.
Other names under consideration for the role include Senator Ernst herself and Elbridge Colby, a former Defense Department official during Trump’s first term. These developments highlight the challenges Trump faces in securing a candidate who satisfies both his administration’s priorities and the concerns of Senate Republicans.
Should DeSantis accept the position, it would mark a significant reconciliation between him and Trump, signaling a potential new chapter in their political relationship. With his term as Florida governor ending in 2026, DeSantis could see the role as an opportunity to shape defense policy on a national stage.