U.S. President Donald Trump tells reporters it is “very early” to discuss whether Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth could run for president in 2028. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump responds to questions and references ongoing work, saying Hegseth is “doing a fantastic job,” but that it is too soon to talk about a potential campaign.
The outlets describe Trump’s comments as a direct dismissal of current speculation about a 2028 bid, with Trump avoiding engagement on the prospect of an electoral run by his defense chief. One report emphasizes the statement’s timing and Trump’s acknowledgment of Hegseth’s performance, while another frames the exchange as Trump sidestepping discussion of a successor and declining to confirm or develop the speculation. Both accounts present the same core message: Trump does not entertain the idea in public discussion at this stage, without offering additional details.
Overall, the reporting centers on Trump’s decision to treat the 2028 campaign topic as premature, rather than on any substantive policy or political platform considerations by Hegseth.
