From The Straits Times · · 1m
Trump backs Hegseth as defense secretary amid political tension
Trump says Hegseth is doing a very good job despite political backlash over Iran war and Pentagon reforms.
In brief
Trump says Hegseth is doing a very good job despite political backlash over Iran war and Pentagon reforms. Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's performance after midterm election losses and congressional criticism over Iran war policy. Originally reported by The Straits Times.
Trump defends Hegseth
Trump backed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Nov 4 after Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress.
“No, I think he’s doing a very good job”
Hegseth's political challenges
Hegseth faces impeachment threats and criticism over Iran war policy from Republican lawmakers.
Congressional tensions
Senator Thom Tillis warned Hegseth could be replaced due to strained relationships with lawmakers.
“I think after the election, we need to determine whether or not he’s the best person to bring those needs to Congress”
Potential replacement
Trump suggested Hegseth might fill Tennessee senator Marsha Blackburn's vacant seat.
“Well, I think he’s doing a very good job, and I actually think he’d be very popular if he did that”
Pentagon reforms
Hegseth's plans to livestream Army execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan faced backlash.
Iran war criticism
Hegseth criticized Democrats for urging troops to refuse illegal orders during military operations.
“Hegseth accused them of sedition”
Defense spending concerns
Republicans face challenges securing $1.5 trillion defense spending package due to Hegseth's congressional relations.
The bottom line
Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's performance after midterm election losses and congressional criticism over Iran war policy.
