Breaking News: Trump’s defense secretary pick says he’s not dropping out amid doubts over confirmation….Read More

What we’re covering
• Hegseth strikes back: Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary, was defiant Wednesday in the face of doubts that he can win confirmation as he met with Republican lawmakers and sought to address concerns about a series of misconduct allegations.

• Hegseth’s vow: The former Fox News host and veteran vowed to “fight like hell” to win confirmation — and told at least one GOP senator he would quit drinking alcohol if he gets the job.

• DeSantis under consideration: Meanwhile, the president-elect’s allies involved in the transition process have been compiling a list of alternative candidates — including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — in case Hegseth’s path to the confirmation implodes, according to sources.

Trump picks Fiserv CEO Frank Bisignano for Social Security Administration commissioner

President-elect Donald Trump named Frank Bisignano as his pick for commissioner of the Social Security Administration.

Trump highlighted Bisignano’s professional experience in two Truth Social posts, particularly focusing on his role as chairman, president and CEO of Fiserv, the world’s largest payments and financial technology company.

Frank is a business leader, with a tremendous track record of transforming large corporations,” Trump said. “He will be responsible to deliver on the Agency’s commitment to the American People for generations to come!”

Additionally, Trump praised Bisignano’s involvement in philanthropic organizations, such as the National September 11 Memorial and Museum and the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families.