United States Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll submitted his resignation following reports of tension with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, according to an AFP report published on September 1, 2026. White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly did not dispute the resignation reports when questioned by media outlets.
White House Response and Assessment of Leadership
During a White House briefing, Anna Kelly addressed inquiries regarding the Wall Street Journal report on Driscoll’s departure. Instead of confirming the administrative mechanics, Kelly praised Driscoll’s tenure in the Department of the Army.
“Driscoll was extremely effective in advancing President Trump’s agenda to ‘Make America Strong Again’ in the Department of the Army,” Kelly stated, according to AFP. Kelly highlighted Driscoll’s “extraordinary leadership” during military operations, noting efforts focused on restoring emphasis on readiness and lethality, alongside assisting negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
Did you know?
Dan Driscoll is a former Army veteran who served in Iraq, ran an unsuccessful congressional campaign in 2020, and later advised Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. He also attended law school alongside Vice President JD Vance.
Persistent Leadership Vacancies Amid Ongoing Conflict
The potential departure marks the latest exit of a senior military leader under President Donald Trump’s administration. If accepted, the resignation leaves the Army without permanent civilian or active military leadership.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth previously dismissed Chief of Staff General Randy George in April, and the position lacks a permanent appointee. These ongoing leadership shifts coincide with the seventh month of the conflict involving Iran, compounding pressures on the defense apparatus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dan Driscoll?
Dan Driscoll served as the United States Secretary of the Army, an Iraq War veteran, and an advisor to Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.
Why did Dan Driscoll resign?
According to reports from the Wall Street Journal and AFP, Driscoll’s resignation follows reported tensions with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Who currently leads the Army following the departure?
The Army lacks permanent leadership at both civilian and active-duty levels, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has not yet named a permanent replacement for General Randy George, who was dismissed in April.
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