Trump praises Hegseth's defense work but says 2028 presidential talk is premature

In an Oval Office interview, President Trump praised Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for his handling of the War Department, especially recent operations targeting Iran. He cautioned that conversations about Hegseth pursuing the White House in 2028 are premature, emphasizing the importance of the midterm elections. Hegseth has repeatedly dismissed reports of a presidential interest as completely false.

Nonetheless, his recent campaign stops in Iowa for Rep. Zach Nunn and in Kentucky against Rep. Thomas Massie have sparked speculation. Evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats suggested Hegseth’s political ceiling is self-determined. Other Republicans, including Senator Ted Cruz, have signaled openness to discussing the GOP’s future leadership. Trump concluded by highlighting Hegseth’s focus on military matters and recent successes in Iran and Venezuela.