Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has recently discussed running for office in Tennessee, according to two individuals who spoke directly with him. The sources told NBC News he mentioned a potential 2026 bid for governor. The race will be open, but candidates must have lived in Tennessee for at least seven years—Hegseth has reportedly lived there for only about three.

Politics

Hegseth weighs run for Tennessee governor, draws mixed reactions: Report

10 days ago 1:29

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly explored a 2026 Tennessee governor run, facing legal hurdles and ongoing Pentagon scrutiny.

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