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.

On July 29, NBC reported that Hegseth has "privately discussed the idea of running for political office." While the Pentagon’s chief spokesman Sean Parnell denied any idea of Hegseth vying for the governorship in Tennessee, the Secretary of Defense could run for office should he choose to leave his current post.

"The Daily Show" pleaded with the people of Tennessee Wednesday night to "take one for the team" and elect Pete Hegseth governor.