Trump denies firing Defense Secretary Hegseth after GOP midterm loss in DC

President Donald Trump denied reports that he plans to fire Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following the Republican Party's significant losses in the recent midterm elections, Fox23.com reported. Multiple sources indicated Trump was consulting advisers about the possibility, but no final decision had been made.

The midterm elections resulted in Democrats gaining control of both the House and Senate, picking up seven Senate seats and 25 in the House, according to Fox23.com. Despite the GOP setbacks, Trump expressed confidence in Hegseth's performance as Defense Secretary during a news conference at the White House ballroom.

Trump suggested Hegseth would do well if he ran for the Senate seat in Tennessee vacated by GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn, stating he thought Hegseth would be popular in that role. However, Trump emphasized he had not heard about any plans to replace him.

Fox23.com also noted that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is being considered as a potential replacement for Hegseth. Meanwhile, Kentucky GOP Rep. Thomas Massie had introduced articles of impeachment against Hegseth earlier, accusing him of violating the 1973 War Powers Resolution related to the Iran conflict, but the vote was delayed by House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Separately, WTOP reported that Trump is weighing his next move regarding the Iran war, which contributed to the GOP's midterm losses. Despite acknowledging the war's political cost, Trump said he would make the same decision again. The conflict has caused extensive damage and economic effects globally, including higher gas prices.

The situation remains volatile in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts involving Iran-backed groups and regional coalitions, raising concerns about humanitarian crises and regional stability, according to WTOP.

Washington-area residents will be watching closely as decisions about Defense leadership and U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East continue to develop amid the changing political landscape.