Trump considers DeSantis for Defense secretary amid more allegations against nominee Hegseth, report

President-elect Donald Trump is considering Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for Defense secretary amid growing allegations about nominee Pete Hegseth's personal and financial history, according to news reports.

The potential change, as Hegseth now appears to be facing an uphill battle to win Senate confirmation, was reported overnight by The Wall Street Journal and Politico.

Hegseth, a military veteran and Fox News Channel host, is facing allegations of excessive drinking, sexual misconduct and the financial mismanagement of organizations he led. 

Hegseth was accused of sexual assault in 2017 but reached a settlement with the woman that accused him and was never charged. He has also denied the allegation. A report overnight by NBC New, based on information from anonymous Fox employees and former ones, said Hegseth's drinking worried them. 

Hegseth is expected to meet with Sens. John Thune, R-S.D., Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., and Roger Wicker, R-Miss., about his nomination, according to Punchbowl News.

He will not get confirmed if all Democrats vote against him and less than three Republicans support him. 

Hegseth will also meet with Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa., who plans to ask him questions about the allegations against him.