Trump says it’s ‘very early’ to talk about a Hegseth 2028 presidential campaign
WASHINGTON, Aug 31 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday told reporters it was too soon to discuss his potential successor, sidestepping talk of a 2028 campaign by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Washington, August 31 - U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters on Monday that it was premature to discuss his potential successor, avoiding any mention of a 2028 campaign by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Responding to an NBC News report suggesting Hegseth has contemplated a White House run, Trump commended Hegseth's performance but emphasized the need to first focus on the midterm elections. The Republican Party is currently striving to retain control of both chambers of Congress in the upcoming November elections.
Pentagon chief Hegseth, a former Fox News Channel host and Army National Guard veteran, campaigned for Republicans during the Iowa State Fair this month. He dismissed the report on his 2028 presidential aspirations as "100% false" in a subsequent social media post. Trump, who is only allowed two terms, has not yet named a successor to lead his Make America Great Again movement following his tenure's conclusion in 2029.
Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have both been urged by supporters to run for the presidency.
Trump hinted at the existence of other potential candidates who have not yet been disclosed. He reiterated his strong endorsement power, highlighting its significance and asserting that it holds the title of "the strongest Endorsement in the History of Politics."
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