President Donald Trump announced Thursday that Adam Telle will serve as acting secretary of the Army following the resignation of Dan Driscoll, putting a longtime Republican congressional aide at the helm of the service during a period of significant leadership turnover.
Telle, who has served as assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works, will take over the Army’s top civilian position effective immediately.
“He is a Great Patriot, who is respected by all,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post announcing the appointment.
As assistant secretary for Civil Works, Telle has overseen the Army’s civil works and public infrastructure responsibilities, including waterways, ports and flood-control projects managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In that position, he has also been responsible for carrying out the Trump administration’s priorities involving the nation’s water infrastructure.
Telle replaces Driscoll after Pentagon clashes
Trump’s announcement came one day after Driscoll, a close ally of Vice President JD Vance, left the Army secretary position following months of internal clashes with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Driscoll broke his silence about his departure Tuesday, announcing that Wednesday would be his final full day as Army secretary. He did not publicly provide a reason for leaving.
“As a third-generation Army veteran, it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as the Secretary of the Army under President Trump and Secretary Hegseth. Tomorrow is my last full day in the role,” Driscoll said in a statement. “Our Soldiers, Civilians and their Families are our Nation’s very best and they have inspired me every day. I am sincerely thankful for their service and sacrifice.”
His departure comes amid broader changes in the Army’s senior leadership under Hegseth.
The defense secretary has recently removed several senior Army officers, including Gen. Randy George, the Army chief of staff, and Gen. Chris Donahue, commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa.
Telle brings Capitol Hill experience to Army post
Before joining the Trump administration in his current Army position, Telle spent much of his career working for Senate Republicans.
He previously served as chief of staff to Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., and worked in the White House Office of Legislative Affairs during Trump’s first term.
Telle was confirmed by the Senate last year to serve as assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works. His nomination received bipartisan support, passing the Senate in a 72-22 vote.
Hegseth praised Telle shortly after Trump announced the appointment.
“Huge congrats to Adam. Strong and whip smart,” Hegseth wrote on social media Thursday. “He is indeed a great Patriot — and will be an immediate asset to the @USArmy.”
