Secretary Hegseth remains fully engaged in his confirmed role, directing Pentagon contract reforms, military personnel reductions in Europe, and the administration's fiscal year 2027 defense budget while testifying before Congress on Iran policy in mid-May 2026. These visible actions, combined with the lack of any public statements, Senate pressure, or executive signals pointing to a departure within the next two weeks, underpin the near-certain trader view that he will continue through May 31. Only an abrupt development such as a sudden health event, major scandal, or direct presidential decision could alter the outcome before the deadline.