The White House is stepping in to block Pete Hegseth’s choice of chief of staff at the US defense secretary’s office, opting to select their candidate instead. Marine Col Ricky Buria, Hegseth’s preferred pick, has been deemed unsuitable due to limited experience and internal office conflicts. The move reflects President Donald Trump’s desire to support Hegseth and prevent further missteps in his leadership. Buria, despite a history as a former MV-22 pilot with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, faced challenges like failing a polygraph test and being linked to sensitive communications regarding military operations. His rapid rise within Hegseth’s office, including assuming the role of senior military assistant after the dismissal of a three-star officer, raised eyebrows within the Pentagon. The ongoing staffing turmoil in Hegseth’s office, operating with a skeletal team, has significant implications for defense policy and decision-making. The situation underscores the tension between Hegseth’s choices and the White House’s intervention, highlighting broader concerns about leadership and stability at the Pentagon.