Hegseth imposes his will on Army with Driscoll resignation

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has tendered his resignation, the White House announced on Monday, amid reported discord with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. When queried about a Wall Street Journal report alleging Driscoll's departure, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly did not refute the claim. According to Kelly, Driscoll had made significant contributions to President Trump's agenda at the Army Department, displaying "outstanding leadership" during military operations, restoring a focus on readiness and lethality, and facilitating negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Kelly further stated that Driscoll's resignation would leave the US Army more robust than ever, under the guidance of the Commander-in-Chief and Secretary of War. If confirmed, Driscoll's resignation would represent another senior military figure leaving the Donald Trump administration. A former law school acquaintance of Vice President JD Vance, Driscoll had allegedly benefited from their friendship within the administration, but reportedly had a disagreement with Hegseth.

Driscoll, an Army veteran who served in Iraq, had unsuccessfully contested a congressional seat in 2020 and later counseled Trump's 2024 reelection effort. With the Iran conflict's seventh month underway, Driscoll's resignation could potentially leave the Army without permanent civilian or uniformed leadership. Hegseth had previously dismissed Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George in April and has yet to appoint a permanent successor.