United States Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll has submitted his resignation following months of high-level tensions with War Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to U.S. media reports.
White House Response and Praise for Driscoll
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly issued a statement highlighting Driscoll’s tenure at the Department of the Army. According to the White House, Driscoll advanced President Trump’s agenda by providing leadership during military operations, assisting with negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and emphasizing readiness and lethality. “The United States Army is more powerful than ever thanks to his work alongside the Commander-in-Chief and Secretary of War,” Kelly said.
Tensions and Departures at the Pentagon
Driscoll’s resignation follows a series of high-profile departures within the Pentagon under Hegseth’s leadership. According to Fox News, Driscoll raised concerns with the Trump administration regarding Hegseth’s firing of Army generals responsible for military transformation and readiness. Fox News reported that Hegseth previously canned Army Chief of Staff General Randy George—who served as Driscoll’s top aide—in April. Additional dismissals included General David Hodne of the Army’s Transformation and Training Command and Major General William Green of the Army’s Chaplain Corps, with the department citing a need for leadership changes.
According to the New York Post, sources indicated that Hegseth developed concerns about being replaced by Driscoll, who is known to be close to Vice President JD Vance. The New York Post reported that Hegseth’s top spokesman, Sean Parnell, is viewed as a candidate to succeed Driscoll. Reuters reported that a source familiar with the matter stated it remains unclear whether the White House has formally accepted Driscoll’s resignation, and the Army declined to comment on the development.
Background on Daniel Driscoll’s Tenure
Driscoll was confirmed by the Senate in February 2025 by a 66-28 vote following a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee. An Iraq war veteran, Yale Law School graduate, and tech investor, Driscoll was tapped by President Trump to serve as a change agent. During his time as Army secretary, he managed operations, modernization, and resources for roughly one million active, guard, and reserve soldiers, alongside more than 265,000 civilians. His portfolio also included efforts to reduce red tape for military contractors developing drones and counter-drone technologies.
Did you know?
Daniel Driscoll’s departure leaves the Army without any Senate-confirmed civilian leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll resign?
According to media reports from the Wall Street Journal and Fox News, Driscoll submitted his resignation following months of simmering tensions with War Secretary Pete Hegseth, including concerns raised over the firing of key Army generals.
Who is expected to replace Daniel Driscoll?
An administration official told the New York Post that War Secretary Pete Hegseth’s top spokesman, Sean Parnell, is viewed as a candidate to replace Driscoll.
When was Daniel Driscoll confirmed to his post?
The U.S. Senate confirmed Driscoll in February 2025 in a 66-28.
Stay Updated on Defense News
Sign up for our newsletter to receive real-time updates on Pentagon leadership changes and military policy developments.
Worth a look