Army Secretary Dan Driscoll resigns amid tensions with Hegseth

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has stepped down from his position following increasing tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to a U.S. official. President Donald Trump accepted Driscoll's resignation on Monday evening, the official added. The White House expressed gratitude for Driscoll's contributions, acknowledging his effectiveness in advancing President Trump's agenda within the Department of the Army.

Driscoll played a pivotal role in restoring emphasis on readiness and lethality, assisting in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and more. The White House spokesperson, Anna Kelly, highlighted that the United States Army is stronger than ever due to Driscoll's leadership.

Driscoll and Hegseth had significant differences since assuming their roles in 2025. Hegseth's actions, including the firing or sidelining of multiple senior officers up for promotion to general, and the dismissal of Gen. Randy George, the former Army Chief of Staff, without explanation in April, strained the relationship. Driscoll, who had a close working relationship with George, stated that he was unaware of the reasons behind General George's removal during a congressional hearing.

Notably, President Trump chose Driscoll to lead a diplomatic initiative aimed at restarting Ukraine-Russia peace talks, a task beyond the typical responsibilities of a service secretary. Driscoll was also well-regarded on Capitol Hill and enjoyed access to the White House due to his prior connection with Vice President JD Vance, a Yale Law School classmate who Driscoll met during his service in the 10th Mountain Division as a cavalry officer.