Hegseth and Patel to lead a Trump team under increasing scrutiny

Several high-ranking officials in the Trump administration are facing increasing criticism over their personal conduct and policy choices, challenging the unified image the Cabinet presented on Tuesday. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under fire for military strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean, with questions emerging about whether one lethal strike could be considered a war crime.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi are also under scrutiny both within and outside the administration for their handling and communication of the presidents agenda. FBI Director Kash Patel, though not officially a Cabinet member, is attracting attention for personal travel decisions and operational choices. These concerns have been amplified by a recent report criticizing FBI leadership, drawing on accounts from current and former agents.

Trump and his aides have denied plans to reshuffle the Cabinet, emphasizing the importance of stability and avoiding the internal conflicts that marked his first term. During Tuesdays Cabinet meeting, the president praised his teams accomplishments, stating, Weve done a lot. This group has done a lot. Everyone, everybody at this table has done a fantastic job. The meeting, like previous televised sessions, highlighted the administrations achievements despite a backdrop of declining approval ratings, recent electoral defeats, and controversies involving key figures.

Hegseth faces bipartisan pressure over a September strike on a suspected drug boat, which included a second attack targeting survivors. Although the White House confirmed Navy Adm. Frank Bradley authorized the second strike, lawmakers remain concerned. Hegseth has a history of controversy, from allegations of sexual misconduct and heavy drinking to sharing sensitive military information via a messaging app. Despite these issues, Trump has consistently supported him, and Hegseth remained seated next to the president during Tuesdays meeting.

Patel has also contended with negative headlines, including using an FBI jet for personal travel and criticism over the handling of the search for a suspected shooter. A recent New York Post report, citing active and retired FBI agents, described Patel as in over his head. Trump has publicly stated he does not intend to replace Patel.

Noem has drawn criticism from Trump allies, partly due to her association with former adviser Corey Lewandowski and reports of significant spending on private jets. Despite scrutiny, she has maintained strong messaging on border security and deportation efforts, key priorities for the president.

Other Cabinet members have weathered criticism by publicly demonstrating loyalty and defending their actions. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard faced doubts after Trump publicly contradicted her statements on Iran but has since engaged in high-profile announcements on 2016 election investigations, easing tensions. Bondi encountered criticism over handling documents related to Jeffrey Epstein but remains in good standing with the administration after Trumps support.

White House sources suggest that in a potential second term, Trump is less likely to replace Cabinet members based on negative press, as long as they remain loyal and implement his policies. So far, turnover has been minimal, with former national security adviser Mike Waltz as the only major departure.

Tuesdays Cabinet meeting projected unity, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calling it the greatest Cabinet and Small Business Administration head Kelly Loeffler labeling it the best Cabinet in history. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the teams talent, highlighting Trumps role in selecting each member.

Author: Sophia Brooks