President Trump is signaling a potential shake-up of his cabinet as midterm elections loom, with internal discussions underway about removing Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer amid an ethics probe and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick despite his department's trade successes. The president's abrupt departure of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi last month exposed a new willingness to sever ties with officials who displease him. Chavez-DeRemer faces mounting scrutiny over her leadership at the Labor Department, where an inspector general investigation into professional misconduct allegations has already forced out four colleagues. Lutnick's impulsive style has drawn internal criticism despite delivering trade wins, while Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's Iran testimony frustrations have surfaced. Trump's moves reflect a focus on securing his agenda ahead of November votes, though his history of abrupt personnel decisions often reverses course.

The potential departures could reshape policy priorities and regulatory approaches ahead of critical elections.