US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has denied a report that claimed he privately discussed running for president in 2028 on Friday.
Hegseth called the allegations “100% false” after NBC News cited anonymous sources familiar with the conversations.
If Hegseth were ever to enter the 2028 Republican presidential race, he would likely compete with several prominent Trump administration figures already viewed as possible contenders, according to the report. However, no major candidate has formally announced plans for the Republican nomination.
All other speculation is foolish,” Parnell said. Iowa traditionally hosts the first Republican presidential nominating contest, according to NBC News. “Secretary Hegseth is not running for president, and his main priority is leading the War Department. Hence, the visits by high-profile GOP leaders is being closely watched for a tell tale sign of future ambitions. These include Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Questions about Hegseth’s political future intensified earlier this month after he visited the Iowa State Fair to campaign for Republican Congressman Zach Nunn.
Because he projects the style of masculinity that resonated with many Donald Trump supporters, one Republican operative involved in the party’s midterm preps apparently told the outlet that Hegseth appeals to the Republican base. NBC News also reported that Hegseth’s allies view him as a strong messenger for conservative voters. Moreover, Hegseth has become one of Trump administration’s most visible cabinet members. Since he took office, Hegseth has repeatedly highlighted efforts to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the Pentagon, which in turn made him a MAGA favorite.
One pro-Trump operative quoted by NBC News said Hegseth remained popular among many MAGA supporters but argued that political success would ultimately depend on his performance as defense secretary.
