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Hegseth reportedly favors Sean Parnell for Army secretary

The defense secretary has reportedly backed Parnell after Dan Driscoll resigned amid readiness disputes.

The short version

  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly favored Sean Parnell as his top choice to become the next secretary of the Army.[CBS News]
  • The opening follows the resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll after tensions with Hegseth over the service's transformation and readiness.[Fox News · CBS News]
  • Army Undersecretary Mike Obadal could step in as acting secretary while Florida Representative Brian Mast is also reportedly under consideration.[Fox News]
  • White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is directing the search, though President Donald Trump's formal shortlist remains unknown.[CBS News]

Key facts

  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told people close to him that Sean Parnell is his preferred choice for secretary of the Army.[CBS News]
  • Army Secretary Dan Driscoll submitted his resignation following friction with Hegseth concerning the Army's transformation and readiness.[Fox News · CBS News]
  • Army Undersecretary Mike Obadal could potentially step in as acting secretary once Driscoll departs.[Fox News]
  • Florida Representative Brian Mast is also reported to be under consideration for the role.[Fox News]
  • The Defense Department declined to comment on private conversations regarding Parnell's potential nomination.[CBS News]

What remains uncertain

  • It remains unknown which candidates are officially on President Trump's shortlist as White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles oversees the search.[CBS News]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.