Rubio and Hegseth reportedly plan exits after midterm losses

Two senior Trump administration officials are reportedly planning departures following the Republican Party's significant midterm election losses. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to resign to prepare for a presidential run, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly being considered for a Senate seat. Rubio, considered a strong contender for the 2028 Republican nomination, has denied the reports, calling them "fake news" and stating he will not discuss 2028. He would be legally required to resign from his cabinet post to run for president, as government employees cannot engage in political activities, a precedent set by Hillary Clinton in 2016. Hegseth could be appointed to a Tennessee Senate seat if Senator Marsha Blackburn resigns early, allowing his replacement to be confirmed under the current Republican Senate majority. Hegseth faces potential impeachment hearings if he remains at the Pentagon, and other Tennessee politicians, including Representative Tim Burchett and Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, are also interested in the seat.