🗞️ JENNA BUSH HAGER’S SHOCKING EXIT PLAN: Political Ambitions and ‘TODAY’ Turmoil Spark Media Frenzy

NEW YORK — In a stunning development that’s sending shockwaves through both morning television and political circles, Jenna Bush Hager — beloved co-host of TODAY with Hoda & Jenna — is reportedly “seriously weighing” a departure from NBC’s flagship morning show to pursue a political career.

Sources close to the Bush family and NBC executives confirm that private conversations about a potential campaign run are “no longer hypothetical”, and that mounting backstage tensions at TODAY have accelerated her consideration.

“She’s got the name, the network, and the narrative,” one source told The Morning Ledger. “The question now isn’t if — it’s when.”

🧩 Behind the Smile: Drama on the ‘TODAY’ Set

While Jenna’s on-air chemistry with co-host Hoda Kotb remains strong publicly, insiders say that creative clashes and growing frustrations behind the scenes have made her increasingly disillusioned with the role.

Key friction points include:

Segment control: Jenna reportedly wants more say in political and cultural coverage, while producers prefer a “lighter tone.”
Brand tug-of-war: NBC sees Jenna primarily as “relatable royalty” — a warm personality with historic lineage. But Jenna is said to be pushing for more substance and serious interviews.
Strategic positioning: One executive allegedly warned, “If she wants to be Oprah, she can’t run for Senate. And vice versa.”

🏛️ The Bush Legacy in Play

Jenna, the daughter of former President George W. Bush and granddaughter of former President George H.W. Bush, has long avoided direct involvement in politics — until now.

But recent events have shifted her tone:

She’s made increasingly bold political comments on-air.
She’s been spotted meeting with prominent GOP donors in Texas and Florida.
Close family friend Karl Rove has reportedly re-entered the picture, advising behind the scenes.

“Jenna would enter any race with instant name ID, nationwide goodwill, and a platform most candidates could only dream of,” said one political strategist.

Early speculation suggests possible runs for:

U.S. Senate in Texas (2026)
Governor of Texas (2026 or 2030)
Cabinet-level appointment in a future administration

🎥 NBC’s Internal Panic — and Backup Plans

NBC executives are said to be scrambling behind the scenes, offering Jenna new projects and expanded influence to stay. One proposal includes a prime-time political docuseries, giving her a path to transition without leaving the network entirely.

But according to one senior producer:

“She’s made it clear she doesn’t want to just talk about change. She wants to make it.”

Meanwhile, rumors swirl about potential replacements, including:

Maria Shriver (returning to NBC?)
Savannah Sellers (Gen Z-friendly anchor)
Meghan McCain (controversial but high-profile)

🗳️ What’s Next for Hoda & Jenna — and for America?

Publicly, NBC has declined to comment. Jenna herself has not addressed the speculation, but her recent quote during a live segment raised eyebrows:

“Sometimes, when the next door opens, you have to walk through — even if the hallway looks a little scary.”

Whether that hallway leads to Washington remains to be seen.

📣 Bottom Line

If Jenna Bush Hager leaves TODAY, it will mark not just a shift for morning TV — but potentially a new era in American political dynasties, media influence, and crossover celebrity power.

And come election season, don’t be surprised if the woman who once read picture books to America’s children is instead asking for their votes.