Trump backs Hegseth as Democrats plan Iran war probes
President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will remain in his job, dismissing replacement speculation amid fallout from the Iran war and upcoming Democratic investigations. Trump told reporters Hegseth is "doing a great job" and predicted he would be "very popular" in Tennessee, amid speculation about a Senate run. The defense secretary's spokesperson confirmed Hegseth is committed to serving through the end of Trump's term. Democrats, preparing to use their new congressional majority, may investigate the Iran war, strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats, and Hegseth's firings of senior officers. Vice President JD Vance blamed the war for Republican midterm losses, saying "the reason we lost is the war."