Pete Hegseth's nomination for defense secretary is reportedly uncertain now as controversies surrounding his personal life continue to grow. According to the Wall Street Journal, President-elect Donald Trump is exploring the possibility of replacing him with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
DeSantis, a former Navy lawyer and a 2024 GOP primary rival for the presidency, was on an earlier list of potential candidates for the post but lost out to the former Fox News host. Now, Trump allies are reportedly reviving the list as skepticism grows about Hegseth's ability to secure confirmation in the Senate. Conversations are still in early stages, with Trump floating DeSantis's name during informal talks at his Mar-a-Lago estate, The outlet reported.
If selected, DeSantis's military service and alignment with Trump's views on "woke" policies in the armed forces could help solidify support among Republicans. However, some Trump allies oppose DeSantis, which could hinder his chances. Among the other candidates to head the Pentagon are former Pentagon official Elbridge Colby, an ally of Vice President-elect JD Vance, and Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa.
Hegseth has faced multiple allegations that have raised doubts about his nomination. A 2017 sexual assault accusation resurfaced recently, as well as reports of a settlement Hegseth paid to his accuser in 2020 to avoid legal action.
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Other claims include accusations of heavy drinking and inappropriate conduct during his time leading veterans' nonprofits. Hegseth's drinking habits raised concerns among colleagues during his stint as a co-host on Fox & Friends Weekend, NBC News reported on Tuesday. The article included interviews with 10 current and former Fox News employees, two of whom said they smelled alcohol on him on multiple occasions before broadcasts, while others pointed to instances when he appeared on air after mentioning that he was hungover.
Hegseth's personal life has also come under scrutiny. In 2018, his mother sent him an email accusing him of being an "abuser of women" during his divorce from his second wife, according to The New York Times. Penelope Hegseth later apologized, calling the email a reaction made in anger.
Senators had privately warned Hegseth about the scrutiny he would face during confirmation hearings. Although no Republicans have publicly opposed his nomination, sources quoted by different outlets say up to six senators may be hesitant to support him.
Among the Republican Senators supporting Hegseth are Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who came out to back of the Fox News presenter after a closed door meeting on Monday night.
DeSantis, who endorsed Trump after dropping out of the 2024 GOP primary, had clashed with him during the campaign, with Florida governor criticizing Trump on issues such as immigration and his handling of COVID-19 policies, though the two have worked to repair the relationship.
Should DeSantis accept the job and be confirmed by the Senate, it could trigger a reshuffle in Florida politics, especially as Senator Marco Rubio moves forward to become secretary of state.
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