Hegseth not considered for Tennessee Senate seat, closing possible exit from Pentagon

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly not being considered for a vacant Tennessee Senate seat, closing a potential escape route from the Trump administration amid mounting scrutiny over his role in the Iran war. Tennessee Governor-elect Marsha Blackburn dismissed the rumor as "Washington D.C. spin," with a source saying her team is focused on the transition. Trump has not discussed the appointment with Blackburn, and Hegseth has stated he is not interested in the role. Hegseth faces potential impeachment threats from Democrats when they take control of the House in January, though Trump has expressed intention to keep him. He posted a defiant video Thursday vowing not to back down, while his team launched a public relations campaign amid the pressure.