In particular, Hegseth's comments criticizing Trump's handling of the war in Ukraine have raised concerns about his loyalty and judgment. Sources say that Trump is now looking for a candidate who is "more aligned with his agenda" and less likely to "stray from the script."
DeSantis, on the other hand, has emerged as a strong candidate due to his conservative credentials and his popularity among Republican voters. DeSantis has been a vocal supporter of Trump's policies and has vowed to "fight for the values that made America great."
DeSantis' support for Trump and his aggressive stance on issues such as immigration and education have made him a favorite among Trump's base. Sources say that Trump is impressed with DeSantis' "strong leadership" and his ability to "get things done."
If Trump does choose DeSantis as his Defence Secretary, it would be a significant move that could have implications for the 2024 presidential election. DeSantis is considered a potential challenger to Trump in the Republican primary, and appointing him to a high-profile cabinet position could be seen as an attempt to neutralize him.
However, it could also be a strategic move by Trump to shore up support among his base. DeSantis is a popular figure among Republicans, and appointing him to a cabinet position could help Trump to maintain his hold on the party.
DeSantis' appointment as Defence Secretary would likely have a significant impact on defence policy. DeSantis is a strong supporter of a robust military and has vowed to "rebuild the armed forces." He has also called for increased defence spending and a tougher stance against America's adversaries.
If appointed, DeSantis is expected to implement policies that align with Trump's "America First" agenda. This could include increased focus on domestic threats, such as terrorism, and a reduction in US involvement in foreign conflicts.
Trump's reported consideration of DeSantis as Defence Secretary is a significant development that could have implications for the Trump administration, the 2024 presidential election, and defence policy. DeSantis' appointment would likely be met with enthusiasm by Trump's base but could also raise concerns among those who question his experience and judgment.