Trump hesitates to fire Hegseth despite Iran war fallout

President Donald Trump said Thursday he intends to keep Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary despite growing political pressure following the midterm elections. Trump acknowledged calls from critics but claimed not to understand their objections. Hegseth faces impeachment articles filed by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie over unauthorized military operations against Iran, with a forced vote possible when the House returns Nov. 9. His wife's consulting work for a firm tied to defense contractor Lockheed Martin has also raised ethical concerns. Trump's decision is complicated by the Iran war's unpopularity, with Vice President JD Vance blaming it for Republican losses. Hegseth could potentially move to a Tennessee Senate seat, but firing him might imply the war was a mistake.