US Army secretary resigns after clash with Hegseth over military readiness, modernization - CNN

According to CNN, Driscoll raised concerns about the state of the Army, its modernization and readiness, accusing Hegseth of hampering those efforts by firing generals responsible for them.

An Army official told CNN that Driscoll had spoken to Trump about "the current state of the Army" before submitting his resignation. It remains unclear when he will formally leave office.

Driscoll's departure comes six months into the US war with Iran and after a series of dismissals and departures among senior Army leaders under Hegseth.

Earlier this year, Hegseth fired Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, who had worked closely with Driscoll on efforts to modernize the service. Driscoll later publicly praised George before Congress, calling him "an amazing, transformational leader."

CNN reported that tensions between Driscoll and Hegseth had persisted for months. Hegseth reportedly viewed Driscoll's close relationship with Vice President JD Vance and his access to the White House as an attempt to circumvent him.

Driscoll and Vance attended Yale Law School together and have remained close friends. Driscoll also developed a relationship with Trump, who tapped him in 2025 to help persuade Ukraine to return to negotiations with Russia.

The White House credited Driscoll with providing leadership during military operations, strengthening Army readiness and assisting with negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Driscoll, an Army veteran who served in Iraq, has led the service since 2025. If he leaves office before a successor is confirmed, Army Under Secretary Mike Obadal would typically become acting secretary.