Trump floats DeSantis as potential defense secretary replacement if Hegseth falters

President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering nominating Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida as defense secretary to replace Pete Hegseth, the current pick to lead the Pentagon. DeSantis, a former rival of Trump during the GOP presidential nomination battle, has since made amends with the president-elect and even helped raise funds for Trump during the general election.

DeSantis, a popular conservative governor and Navy veteran who served in the Iraq war, was re-elected in a landslide in 2022. However, due to term limits, he cannot run for re-election in 2026. If nominated and confirmed by the GOP-controlled Senate, DeSantis would be replaced by Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, making her Florida’s first female governor and the first of Cuban descent.

The news of DeSantis being considered for defense secretary comes as Hegseth faces allegations of drinking and sexual misconduct. Despite denying the allegations, Hegseth’s mother, Penelope Hegseth, appeared on Fox and Friends to defend her son and urge senators to listen to the truth.

President Trump himself reportedly floated the idea of nominating DeSantis for the position. If chosen, DeSantis would bring his military experience and conservative principles to the role. The Wall Street Journal was the first to report on Trump’s consideration of DeSantis for defense secretary.

Overall, the potential nomination of DeSantis as defense secretary and the subsequent rise of Nuñez as Florida’s governor would mark a significant moment in the state’s political history. It remains to be seen how the nomination process will unfold in the coming months.