Senator Thom Tillis Urges Trump to Fire Defense Secretary Hegseth

Republican Senator Thom Tillis called on President Donald Trump to fire Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on September 2, 2026, citing inept management and the creation of a leadership void. The demand follows the September 1 resignation of Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, who reportedly clashed with Hegseth over the removal of experienced commanders and the failure to promote women and people of color.

Tillis accused Hegseth of prioritizing culture wars over national defense and being intimidated by competence. This criticism comes as the U.S. enters its seventh month of war with Iran, a conflict that has depleted munitions stockpiles. Approximately 20 senior generals, admirals, and civilian leaders have been removed since Hegseth took office as part of an effort to eliminate woke policies. Democratic Senator Mark Kelly and Republican Representative Don Bacon joined the calls for Hegseth's removal.

President Donald Trump has continued to support Hegseth, stating he is doing a fantastic job. The White House defended the Secretary, claiming he has restored a focus on readiness and lethality. Amidst these tensions, Trump nominated acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to permanently lead the department. Cao, an ally of Hegseth, has previously advocated for the reinstatement of service members discharged over COVID-19 vaccine mandates and criticized the use of drag queens in Navy recruitment.