Defense Secretary replacement

The White House has compiled an informal list of potential replacements for Defense Secretary James Mattis in preparation for the retired general's hypothetical decision to leave his Cabinet position, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.

  The Hill

"Decision to leave."

Officials inside the White House reportedly expect that Mattis will leave his position in the coming months, though there's no indication his departure is imminent or that he will be forced out.

After that Woodward book, I think we all know his days are numbered.

A senior White House official told Rogin that Trump has "always respected" Mattis, but that speculation about who might replace the secretary is "more real than ever."

No doubt.

Congressional and administration officials told the Post that retired Army Gen. Jack Keane is considered the administration's top choice to replace Mattis. Keane told NPR shortly after the 2016 presidential election that he was offered the job at the outset of the administration, but declined for personal reasons.

Smart man.

Other potential appointees being considered on an informal basis reportedly include Sens. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), as well as former Sen. Jim Talent (R-Mo.).

More likely that a suckup Senator will be chosen, because I imagine most military people are sympathetic to Mattis. And isn't that typically a civilian post?

...but hey, do what you want...you will anyway.