Sean Parnell’s name is among the leading candidates for U.S. Army secretary as Dan Driscoll considers leaving his post.
The Hill reported Wednesday, citing two sources, that Parnell is among the candidates being reviewed for the Army Department’s highest-ranking civilian position. The report also said that Parnell had previously shown particular interest in the post.
Parnell’s commitment to his current role emphasized
Responding to questions about Parnell’s candidacy, a senior administration official said Parnell is “100 percent focused” on his current role, to which he was appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Hegseth.
A Pentagon official and a former administration official familiar with internal discussions said Parnell is among the names on Hegseth’s shortlist. The Pentagon official also said Parnell has a broad network of supporters across the administration and has worked intensively to promote cultural change and accountability at the Pentagon.
The same official argued that Parnell’s combat and management experience would help establish “leadership focused on accountability, change and transformation” in the Army.
Driscoll’s future in office remains uncertain
Parnell’s emergence as a possible successor comes as Driscoll considers leaving after months of tensions and a power struggle between him and Hegseth.
According to a source familiar with the discussions, Driscoll is considering leaving his post around Labor Day. The White House wants Driscoll to remain in office at least until the midterm elections in November.
NBC News first reported Tuesday that Driscoll had been at the White House on Monday to discuss his future.
Parnell holds two positions at the Pentagon
Parnell, who has served as the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson since February 2025, also chairs the Special Review Panel on the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
