U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is considering running for president in the 2028 U.S. election, NBC News reported, potentially setting the stage for an early Republican contest to succeed President Donald Trump.
According to the report, Hegseth has told close friends and colleagues that he is considering a presidential bid, although he has not made a final decision or announced any official campaign.
The Trump administration has not publicly commented on the report or Hegseth’s potential political plans.
Early Race to Succeed Trump
Attention within the Republican Party is gradually turning toward the 2028 presidential race, particularly because Trump is constitutionally barred from seeking a third elected term under current rules.
Trump has previously mentioned several potential Republican contenders, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Hegseth’s name is now emerging as another potential contender who could seek a prominent position in the Republican race.
Trump Raises Possibility of a Third Term
Despite the constitutional restrictions on presidential terms, Trump has repeatedly sparked debate over the possibility of seeking a third term, saying on previous occasions that there may be “ways” for him to run again.
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution limits presidents to being elected no more than twice. Trump is currently serving his second presidential term.
The next U.S. presidential election is scheduled for November 2028, with competition to succeed Trump potentially beginning well ahead of the election.
