Trump administration faces shakeup after Republican midterm defeat

The Republican Party's defeat in the US midterm elections may trigger major personnel changes in Donald Trump's administration, with several top officials' positions at risk, according to Financial Times on November 6. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is among the most vulnerable, as his public role in the Iran military campaign and Pentagon reforms drew criticism from voters and Republicans. House Speaker transition to Democrats could bring new investigations and impeachment attempts, though Trump has expressed satisfaction with his work. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles faces scrutiny over failure to shift presidential agenda on Iran's price impact. Vice President JD Vance's influence weakened after backing Vivek Ramaswamy's failed Ohio gubernatorial bid, while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick faces Epstein-related questions and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent struggles with cost-of-living concerns.