Trump Advisers Predict Hegseth Exit After Midterm Losses

Following projected Republican losses in the 2026 midterm elections, commentators suggest President Trump may replace Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, potentially before January. Analysts believe this could be an easy scapegoating move for Trump to make. Former Senator Claire McCaskill predicted Trump might remove Hegseth, possibly by having Senator Marsha Blackburn appoint him to a Tennessee Senate seat. New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman agreed, noting Hegseth's optimism about the Iran war, though she stressed the decision was ultimately Trump's. Haberman added that removing Hegseth could help Trump build comity with Democrats, as he faces a changed political reality in his final two years. She said voters sent a clear message against overreach.