Trump considering Ron DeSantis for defence secretary – as current pick faces controversy

Donald Trump is reportedly considering making Florida governor Ron DeSantis his defence secretary – and ditching his embattled current selection.

The US president-elect had initially announced his intention to nominate Pete Hegseth to lead the Pentagon, but there is reportedly doubt that he could clear the vote in the Senate needed to be appointed.

Mr Trump’s picks for his cabinet have attracted controversy and there has been speculation that some might struggle to be confirmed.

Matt Gaetz, his initial pick for attorney general, previously announced his withdrawal from the process.

Two sources familiar with the decision-making process told Sky News’ US partner network NBC News that DeSantis, once a rival in the Republican presidential race, could be chosen to replace Mr Hegseth.

Mr DeSantis is “very much in contention”, according to one source.

NBC News reported Mr Hegseth’s nomination was in jeopardy after at least six Republican Senators were wavering in their support.

Mr Hegseth, a Fox News host, has attracted controversy over claims of excessive drinking, financial mismanagement and improper behaviour.

An article in the New Yorker magazine reported that the allegations led to him having to quit leadership roles in two separate non-profit organisations for military veterans.

Read more:
Trump picks billionaire for US ambassador to UK
How did the cases against Hunter Biden unfold?

Mr DeSantis pulled out of the contest to be the Republican nominee for president in January after falling well behind Mr Trump in the primary campaign.