Trump on talk of Hegseth 2028 run: ‘It’s very early to talk about that’

President Trump told reporters Monday in the Oval Office that it’s too early to discuss the possibility of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth running for president in 2028.

“I think he’s doing a fantastic job, but it’s very early to talk about that,” Trump said in response to chatter about a Hegseth run.

“We have to get through the midterms first,” Trump said.

“I think he’s a very good guy, but I bet there’s a lot of people considering it that you don’t know about,” he continued. “You have a lot of people, and he’s done a great job, but right now all he loves and all he cares about is the military and taking care of the military.”

NBC News reported over the weekend that Hegseth was considering a possible run in 2028, but the Defense secretary quickly threw cold water on the report.

“100% false. We told NBC that, but they just lie w/ anonymous ‘sources.’ My only job: Make @DeptofWar Great Again,” Hegseth said in a response to the report on social platform X, referring to the Defense Department. “Carry on Patriots, and enjoy your Friday night.”

A number of Trump allies have been floated as 2028 hopefuls including Hegseth, Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Last week, Trump praised Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), his onetime presidential rival turned ally, when asked about the possibility of him running.

“I think he might do that. He’s a very talented guy,” Trump said.