US President Donald Trump’s administration could face a major shake-up after the Republican Party lost control of Congress in the midterm elections, with four to five cabinet members reportedly preparing to leave their posts. The possibility of resignations has added to uncertainty inside the administration, while Trump has also signalled that cabinet changes may be coming.

The development was reported by British newspaper The Independent, citing multiple sources within the Trump administration. The report says Secretary of State Marco Rubio is among those who may step down, although no formal resignation announcement has been made.

The Republican Party’s loss of control of Congress has placed the administration under pressure and triggered speculation about who may take responsibility for the electoral setback. The reported possibility of several departures has raised questions about the future direction of Trump’s cabinet.

Rubio’s possible departure is being discussed in the context of the 2028 US presidential election. He is seen as a potential contender for the Republican presidential nomination and a key rival to Vice President JD Vance in the contest for the party’s support.

According to The Independent, Rubio may seek to strengthen his political position by distancing himself from the consequences of the Iran war and placing responsibility for the conflict on Trump. The report presents this as a possibility, not as a confirmed plan by the secretary of state.

Vance has identified the Iran war as a major factor behind the Republicans’ midterm defeat. Some administration officials reportedly believe that the vice president is trying to separate himself from the political fallout by directing attention towards officials who strongly supported the war.

Rubio, who has taken a firm position in favour of the Iran campaign, could therefore come under increased scrutiny. The reported tension highlights the political pressure facing senior members of the administration as Republicans assess the reasons for their election loss.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly facing particularly intense pressure. His role in managing the Iran war has made him a focus of criticism, with some Republicans seeking to hold him responsible for the party’s losses. A senior figure in Trump’s party reportedly believes Hegseth may have to leave the department before the new Congress begins its session in January.

Trump has also hinted that cabinet changes are possible. Responding to reporters’ questions on Friday, the president said that only a small number of cabinet members might leave their positions.

It remains unclear which officials, if any, will formally resign or when changes may take place. The Independent’s report points to possible departures by four to five cabinet members, but the White House has not publicly confirmed the reported plans.

The coming weeks could reveal whether Trump opts for a limited reshuffle or a broader change in his administration. For now, the uncertainty reflects the political consequences of the midterm results and the debate within the Republican Party over its future leadership and policy direction.