Hegseth denies considering 2028 presidential run, says focus is on defense ministry

Hegseth reportedly sees himself as appealing to US President Donald Trump's MAGA voter base through similar attributes to the president, NBC reported.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told close friends that he is considering running for president in 2028, NBC reported on Friday night, citing two people familiar with the conversations. 

Hegseth reportedly sees himself as appealing to US President Donald Trump's MAGA voter base through similar attributes to the president, such as being defiant and being willing to talk on social issues on the campaign trail, according to NBC. 

Earlier in the month, Hegseth caught attention by attending the Iowa State Fair while campaigning for a Republican congressman there, which NBC reporter Courtney Kube described as "a place where candidates go and showcase themselves in advance of a big run." 

Hegseth attends campaign events

The Iowa State Fair was the second campaign event Hegseth attended this year, months after attending an event in Kentucky to support Trump-endorsed Representative candidate Ed Gallrein over Representative Thomas Massie. 

"In both cases, he was received well. He was received like a rock star." Kube said.