 "Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Reuters File")
President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for the role of defence secretary, potentially replacing current nominee Pete Hegseth, according to The Wall Street Journal.
DeSantis and Trump have had a complex relationship, both allies and rivals at different points. The two competed in the 2024 Republican presidential primary until DeSantis dropped out and endorsed Trump.
If selected for the position, DeSantis would become the 10th appointee from Florida in Trump’s second administration.
However, two previous picks, former Rep. Matt Gaetz and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, have already withdrawn from consideration for their respective roles.
It appears Hegseth may do the same, added the report.
Hegseth faces allegations of sexual, financial and personal misconduct during his time running two veterans’ advocacy groups.
According to The Wall Street Journal report, discussions about a potential replacement are still in the early stages, but Trump has mentioned the name of two-term Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to several people.
DeSantis, a former US Navy JAG officer, served in Iraq and at the Guantánamo Bay detention facility.
In 2018, Trump played a key role in boosting DeSantis’s campaign for governor, helping the then-little-known congressman win. Florida voters re-elected DeSantis to a second term in 2022.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsTheir relationship has grown more positive since the recent presidential primary, although The Wall Street Journal reported that DeSantis remains a controversial figure within Trump’s inner circle.
With inputs from agencies