Sean Parnell, the Pentagon's chief spokesman, is emerging as a top contender to serve as the next U.S. Army secretary, according to multiple Trump administration officials.

Dan Driscoll resigned from the post earlier this week after roughly 18 months in the role. Parnell has held his current position as assistant to the secretary of defense for public affairs since February 2025 and serves as a senior adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Administration sources highlighted Parnell's familiarity with Army operations and lack of a learning curve as key advantages. One official noted that his presence in the building since the start of the president's second term would provide needed stability amid recent leadership changes.

Parnell, a 45-year-old Afghanistan veteran and former Army Ranger, earned two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart during his service from 2004 to 2010. He previously ran as the Republican nominee for Pennsylvania's 17th congressional district in 2020.

Florida Republican Rep. Brian Mast, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee, remains another name under consideration. Mast recently met with Hegseth, though the congressman described the discussion as routine.

Hegseth has expressed support for Parnell, viewing his experience and loyalty as assets for the position. A third person familiar with the deliberations predicted Parnell would ultimately receive the nomination.

The White House has not yet announced a timeline for naming Driscoll's successor. Parnell has not publicly commented on his interest in the role beyond statements affirming his focus on his current duties.