Trump Faces Post-Midterm Choices on Hegseth and Rubio as Iran War Criticism Grows

President Donald Trump's administration faces uncertainty over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio following Republican losses in the midterm elections, with Democrats securing control of both the House and Senate. Hegseth faces mounting pressure over his handling of the Iran war, with Republican Representative Thomas Massie threatening impeachment proceedings as early as next week. Trump has publicly defended Hegseth, while Vice President JD Vance blamed the conflict for the party's defeat. Rubio has rejected reports of leaving to prepare for a 2028 presidential run. The Iran war, now in its ninth month, has triggered debate within Republican ranks over its political and economic consequences. Reports suggest Trump may also consider removing General Dan Caine and Admiral Brad Cooper over allegedly overly optimistic assessments of the conflict.