Trump officials at risk after election defeat

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is being named as a possible scapegoat following the Republican Party's election defeat, with other Trump administration officials also at risk, according to US experts. Political scientist Emma Ricknell noted that ministerial dismissals are common after such poor results. President Donald Trump has reportedly discussed Hegseth's future with close aides, with some conversations focusing on finding a scapegoat, according to CBS News and CNN sources. While Trump publicly said he thinks Hegseth is doing a good job, Democrats have signaled plans for critical investigations and potential impeachment proceedings against him. Other potential targets include Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is seen as controversial and polarizing. Experts note that Trump avoided frequent cabinet changes during his first term due to criticism, making it more likely that top advisers like Chief of Staff Susie Wiles could be dismissed instead. Some officials may also resign voluntarily to avoid scrutiny from a Democrat-controlled Congress, with analysts suggesting the administration's trajectory is now downward.