Trump Considers Pete Hegseth’s Exit as Iran War Fallout Deepens After Republican Midterm Losses

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering replacing Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth following the Republican Party’s disappointing performance in the November 3 midterm elections, as the political fallout from the ongoing Iran war continues to grow. According to reports, Trump has discussed the possibility of a leadership change at the Pentagon with close advisers, although no final decision has been announced.

The conflict with Iran has increasingly become a political challenge for the Trump administration, with rising fuel prices, economic uncertainty and public dissatisfaction contributing to growing pressure on the Republican leadership. The party’s electoral setbacks have intensified questions about the administration’s handling of the military campaign and its wider economic consequences.

According to a CBS News report, Trump held discussions with advisers about whether Hegseth should remain in his position. The Defence Secretary’s future has reportedly become a subject of internal deliberations as the White House evaluates the political implications of the election results. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has reportedly emerged as a possible candidate to replace him.

The political criticism has also extended to senior military officials involved in the conflict. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine could face scrutiny over the military advice provided to the administration during the Iran campaign. Vice President JD Vance has publicly acknowledged the political cost of the conflict. In a social media post, Vance attributed the Republican electoral setback to the war, highlighting the growing divisions within the administration over its consequences.

Despite the speculation surrounding Hegseth’s position, Trump has publicly defended the Defence Secretary, describing his performance as very good and dismissing suggestions that he could be removed immediately. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly has also maintained that the President has full confidence in Hegseth.

Meanwhile, the Democrats’ projected gains in both chambers of Congress could increase scrutiny of the Pentagon and the administration’s military decisions. The changing political balance may also create fresh opportunities for congressional investigations and renewed impeachment efforts against Hegseth. Although the President has not confirmed any immediate leadership changes, the possibility of Hegseth’s departure reflects the growing political consequences of the war and the Republicans’ midterm setbacks.