Hegseth is facing multiple misconduct allegations, including financial mismanagement related to his work with veteran nonprofit groups, sexual assault, sexism, and alcohol abuse. Unsurprisingly, the former Fox News host faces increasingly long odds of being confirmed by the Senate, with as many as six Republican senators considering voting against him. Nonetheless, Hegseth says he’s not backing down.
Perhaps more surprisingly, Trump is reportedly considering Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to replace Hegseth. Over the years, Trump and DeSantis have had a … fraught relationship, drifting back and forth as allies, competitors, and even enemies. Trump repeatedly lashed out against his rival – and DeSantis didn’t exactly hold back.
It appears, however, that despite past animosity, Trump has warmed to the idea of DeSantis replacing Hegseth. DeSantis will almost certainly face an easier confirmation process and spare the incoming Republican administration the embarrassment of a confirmation vote defeat in the Senate.
We’ll be watching whether Trump follows through. Meanwhile, the transition team is reportedly also considering Republican Sens. Joni Ernst and Bill Hagerty.
Ukraine is bringing the war to Russia, reshaping the battlefield and raising new questions about whether the momentum is finally shifting away from Vladimir Putin. In this GZERO World conversation with Ian Bremmer, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba explains why Ukraine believes it has changed the dynamics of the conflict.
Think you know what's going on around the world? Here's your chance to prove it.
Sonam Wangchuk has long campaigned for the reform of India’s corrupt and inefficient system of entrance exams for higher education.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a session at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, before it dissolves ahead of the 2026 Israeli elections, in Jerusalem, Israel, on July 16, 2026.
Israel’s parliament affirmed that the country will hold a national election on Oct. 27.