Overview
- The Army chief, Gen. Randy George, was dismissed by phone on April 2 with no explanation, and Gen. Christopher LaNeve took over in an acting role.
- The Wall Street Journal reports Hegseth suspected George leaked a New York Times story on a disputed one‑star promotions list after Army Secretary Dan Driscoll refused to cut several officers, including Black and female candidates and Col. Dave Butler.
- Coverage describes a long‑running clash between Hegseth and Driscoll that began in early 2025, including concerns reported by the Journal that Hegseth fears President Trump could replace him with Driscoll after Driscoll was tapped to help with Ukraine talks in November 2025.
- Hegseth has removed or sidelined other senior generals since taking office, and a retired Navy admiral warned that swapping out top leaders during a war risks disrupting procurement plans and battlefield advice.
- White House and Pentagon spokespeople say Hegseth retains the president’s confidence as lawmakers press for answers, and Driscoll has stated he will not resign.