Sen. John Kennedy, Republican Senator from Louisiana, stated on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that he is considering a run for president in the 2028 election cycle, responding affirmatively when asked if he was thinking about a presidential bid [1]. Kennedy clarified that his current plans are to run for re-election to the Senate, but he would consider a presidential campaign if he felt he could no longer be effective in his current role [1].
Kennedy emphasized that he has not made a final decision, noting, “If a bunch of goobers run, and I think they’re goobers and one of the goobers might win, and I think I could do a better job, I would consider running,” but reiterated that his focus remains on his Senate re-election for now [1]. He is up for re-election in 2028 [1].
The article highlights that several politicians from both parties are considering presidential runs for 2028, though none have formally announced their candidacy. Vice President JD Vance is widely regarded as a likely contender, but Kennedy declined to compare himself to Vance, stating, “I’m not going to talk about another potential candidate. I’m just not there yet,” and expressed support for a competitive field in both parties [1].
Other potential Republican candidates mentioned include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has stated he has “no plans at this time” to run, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, whose interest was denied by a Pentagon spokesperson. Sen. Ted Cruz is also believed by Vance to be preparing a run [1]. The 2028 election will be the first since 2012 in which Donald Trump will not be the Republican nominee [1].
CONCLUSION
Sen. John Kennedy’s openness to a 2028 presidential bid adds to the growing list of potential candidates, though he has not made a formal decision. The field remains unsettled, with several high-profile Republicans considering their options as the party prepares for a post-Trump era.