Pentagon Turmoil Under Hegseth Grows Amid Driscoll Exit, Feinberg Questions
The Pentagon is facing renewed scrutiny over whether continued leadership turnover could complicate leadership at the department.
Tensions in Pentagon leadership have risen following the resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and news that the White House is considering replacements for Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, according to reports. Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth dismissed these reports as "COMPLETELY false," praising Feinberg's role in advancing President Trump's agenda.
In response to a Reuters report, Hegseth stated on social media platform X that the Defense Department has never had a better Deputy Secretary than Feinberg, emphasizing that such stories are "COMPLETELY false." Hegseth claimed that those pushing for Feinberg's departure were merely envious of his effectiveness in advancing the President's agenda.
Following Driscoll's departure, Hegseth has overseen significant changes in Pentagon leadership, with at least 20 generals, admirals, and civilian officials leaving since his appointment as Defense Secretary. Driscoll's resignation, which came after months of tension with Hegseth, was reportedly due to disagreements over military personnel decisions and readiness issues.
Democrat lawmakers have been calling for Hegseth's removal for months, but now Republicans are also questioning his leadership. Senator Thom Tillis urged President Trump to appoint a new Pentagon chief, criticizing Hegseth for allegedly diminishing the military's strength. Representative Don Bacon and Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Mike Rogers echoed these sentiments, calling for increased stability at the Pentagon.
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