Trump sidesteps Hegseth 2028 speculation: 'We have to get through the midterms first'
The president's Republican Party is fighting to maintain control of both chambers of the US Congress in November's elections.
US President Donald Trump downplayed speculation about his potential successor on Monday, steering clear of the topic of a 2028 presidential campaign. When asked about a report from NBC News suggesting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has contemplated a White House run, Trump praised Hegseth's performance but emphasized that it is too early to discuss such matters.
"We have to get through the midterms first," Trump stated in the Oval Office, highlighting that the Republican Party is striving to maintain control of both chambers of Congress in the upcoming November elections.
Hegseth, a former Fox News Channel host and Army National Guard veteran, campaigned for Republicans at the Iowa State Fair this month. He dismissed the report on his 2028 presidential ambitions as "100% false" in a social media post last week. Trump, who is constitutionally limited to two terms as president, has not yet named a successor to carry forward his "Make America Great Again" movement post-2029.
Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have both been encouraged by their supporters to consider a run. Trump suggested that many individuals are contemplating a presidential bid but remain unknown. He reiterated that his primary focus remains on military matters and ensuring their well-being. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that his endorsement holds the title of "the strongest Endorsement in the History of Politics."
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Trump says it’s ‘very early’ to talk about a Hegseth 2028 presidential campaign dailymaverick.co.za
