U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday dismissed discussion of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth potentially running for the White House in 2028, saying it was too early to discuss his possible successor and that the priority was getting through the midterm elections scheduled for November.
Trump made the comments in response to a question about an NBC News report that Hegseth was discussing a possible presidential run. Trump praised the defense secretary’s performance but told reporters in the Oval Office that it was still far too early to discuss the matter.
report about his 2028 presidential ambitions was “100% false.”
Trump succession race
Trump has not yet named a possible successor to lead the “Make America Great Again” movement after his term ends in 2029, as the U.S. presidency is limited to two terms. According to the source material, supporters have encouraged Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to run.
Trump said many people might consider entering the race, including people who are not yet known, adding that Hegseth’s focus for now was on the military and taking care of it.
Hegseth denies report
Hegseth, a former National Guard servicemember and former Fox News host, took part in a promotional event for Republicans at the Iowa State Fair in August. Last week, in a social media post, he denied the report about his 2028 presidential ambitions, calling it “100% false.”
Congressional elections a priority
The speculation comes as Republicans seek to retain control of both chambers of Congress in the November elections. Trump has endorsed candidates in this year’s races and helped some secure the Republican nomination against incumbent senators.
