**Pete Hegseth remains actively engaged as Secretary of Defense (now titled Secretary of War) into mid-2026, with no announced resignation or formal removal process underway.** He continues to testify on budget requests, conduct media appearances such as a June 10, 2026, briefing at MacDill Air Force Base, and participate in high-profile events including Face the Nation. President Trump’s consistent support has insulated the position despite internal Pentagon friction, including multiple senior officer firings and service secretary departures earlier in 2026. Congressional scrutiny has been largely partisan, with Democratic questioning focused on operational decisions and personnel moves, while Republican leadership has shown no coordinated effort to force a change. Trader consensus at 71% “No” for removal by December 31 aligns with the absence of acute political catalysts or institutional pressure that would overcome White House backing before year-end. Scheduled events like ongoing budget cycles and defense policy implementation further anchor expectations that the current leadership structure holds through the resolution window.