President Trump was reportedly close to firing Defense Secretary Mark Esper after the Pentagon chief publicly broke with him over deploying active-duty troops during recent protests.

The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that Trump was prepared to ax Esper but was convinced not to do so after he consulted with several advisers and Republican lawmakers. Esper, who knew about the president’s feelings toward him, had also reportedly begun preparations for a resignation letter before being persuaded not to do so.