The defense secretary has talked privately about running a campaign in Tennessee, sources told NBC News. The Pentagon said Hegseth’s “focus remains solely on serving under” Trump.

NBC News has reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is considering a run for Tennessee governor in 2026. Hegseth, a resident of Tennessee, would have to resign from his current position to run for political office. Hegseth has faced controversy for sharing classified information and his stance on women in the military.

The Comedy Central series noted the recent rumblings that Hegseth is considering stepping down from his role in the Trump administration to run for Governor of Tennessee next year. "Wow, Pete! What an awesome idea.