Wall Street Journal: “Many in Trump’s inner circle believed that Pompeo, who served as secretary of state during Trump’s first term, was the clear front-runner to be the next defense secretary. The day before the election, Trump praised Pompeo during a campaign rally, marveling at his recent weight loss and twice calling him handsome.” “But to Carlson—the former Fox News host who continues to have deep influence in conservative circles—Pompeo was a risky pick.