Army Secretary Driscoll Steps Down Amid Leadership Changes
Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is resigning after serving 18 months, according to the White House. The announcement follows several changes in military leadership within the Trump administration.
Driscoll, known for his close relation to Vice President JD Vance, had tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The Army has seen significant changes, with Driscoll’s departure as part of a larger shake-up.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly acknowledged Driscoll’s contributions in advancing President Trump’s agenda. Under his leadership, the Army participated in historic operations and prioritization of readiness and power. He aided in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
An anonymous U.S. Army official confirmed Driscoll’s discussion with President Trump about the Army’s status before resigning. The Wall Street Journal reported on his resignation earlier.
Military Leadership Changes
Driscoll’s departure aligns with other leadership changes. Gen. Randy George, a close ally, was removed by Hegseth in April. Gen. Christopher Donahue also left his position unexpectedly in June.
Gen. Christopher LaNeve, propelled by Hegseth, replaced George as the acting chief of staff. Under LaNeve, a drone modernization initiative was halted, reverting the unit in Europe to traditional infantry roles.
Driscoll expressed regret over George’s exit and spoke about visiting George’s home to show support. He noted the civilian leadership’s right to select desired leaders.
Bipartisan Praise
Both Republicans and Democrats commended Driscoll. Rep. Steve Womack praised Driscoll as a transformative leader who brought discipline to the Army. Womack highlighted Driscoll’s active engagement from mentoring West Point cadets to leading at the Pentagon.
Rep. Jason Crow, despite policy disagreements, appreciated Driscoll’s knowledge and diligence. Crow expressed concern over the lack of stable leadership at the Pentagon.
Senator Jack Reed noted Driscoll’s efforts to modernize the Army for future conflicts. Reed criticized Secretary Hegseth’s leadership style, implying it favors loyalty over competence.
Role in Ukraine-Russia Negotiations
Driscoll’s background includes being a tech investor and Iraq war veteran. His role in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine was notable. He pushed for swift development of drone capabilities, adapting to global warfare changes.
Driscoll’s confirmation received a 66-28 Senate vote in February 2025. The confirmation hearing mainly addressed Army modernization, recruitment, and strengthening the military industrial base.
He served as an armor officer from 2007 to 2011, with deployment in Iraq. His political endeavors include a 2020 congressional run in North Carolina.
The Pentagon also announced Navy Secretary John Phelan’s departure, marking him the first military service head to leave in Trump’s second term. Driscoll’s exit fits into broader military leadership shifts.