WASHINGTON: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has strongly denied reports suggesting that he is considering a bid for the White House in the 2028 presidential election.
The speculation emerged after reports claimed that Hegseth had discussed the possibility of a future presidential campaign with friends and close associates. NBC News, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that conversations about a potential 2028 run had taken place in recent months.
Hegseth, however, dismissed the report in a sharp response on social media platform X, calling it “100 percent false.” He also criticised the reliance on anonymous sources and said his team had informed the network of the denial before the story was published.
The Pentagon chief maintained that his current focus remains solely on leading the Department of Defense and carrying out his responsibilities under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Questions about Hegseth's political future had intensified earlier this month following a visit to Iowa, a state that traditionally plays a major role in selecting Republican presidential candidates.
The Defense Department said at the time that Hegseth had travelled to Iowa in a personal capacity, where he appeared at the state fair alongside Republican Congressman Zach Nunn. The visit nevertheless triggered speculation about his possible political ambitions.
Other reports have suggested that Hegseth could consider seeking elected office after leaving the Trump administration. However, his latest public statement represents his clearest rejection yet of claims that he is actively preparing for a presidential campaign.
The speculation surrounding Hegseth comes as discussions over the Republican Party's future leadership are already beginning to take shape ahead of the 2028 election.
Vice President JD Vance is widely viewed as a potential contender for the Republican nomination, while other prominent figures, including Senator Ted Cruz, have also indicated continued presidential ambitions.
For now, Hegseth has sought to distance himself from the emerging race, insisting that his attention remains on the Pentagon rather than electoral politics.
While reports of private discussions have fuelled speculation about his long-term ambitions, the Defense Secretary's public position is unequivocal: he is not preparing for a 2028 presidential campaign.
