Trump Signals JD Vance as Leading Contender for 2028 GOP Presidential Nomination

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – US President Donald Trump on Tuesday publicly suggested that Vice President JD Vance would likely be the frontrunner for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, signaling strong internal party momentum behind the Ohio senator-turned-vice president.

Speaking at the South Court Auditorium after signing an executive order establishing a task force for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Trump responded to a question from Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doocy about the future of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. When asked whether Vance would become its new standard-bearer, Trump stated, “Well, I think most likely. In all fairness, he’s the vice president… and he would be probably favored at this point.”

Trump added that other members of his administration could also emerge as potential contenders, but emphasized the strength of Vance’s current position. He also floated the possibility of a political alliance between Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who previously ran against Trump in the 2016 GOP primary but has since become one of his most reliable allies.

“I think Marco is also somebody that maybe would get together with JD in some form,” Trump remarked. “We have incredible people… but certainly he’s [Vance] doing a great job.”

Trump’s remarks come amid growing interest in the 2028 Republican field as speculation builds around the post-Trump era. Although some of the former president’s allies have hinted at the possibility of a third Trump term, the U.S. Constitution clearly limits presidents to two terms in office.

Rubio, for his part, has already dismissed speculation about his own White House ambitions for 2028, stating that he is content with his Cabinet role and supports Vance’s potential candidacy. During a recent appearance on My View with Lara Trump on Fox News Channel, Rubio said, “I think JD Vance would be a great nominee if he decides he wants to do that.” He also praised Vance’s leadership as vice president, reinforcing the perception that the senator holds widespread support within Trump’s inner circle.

Vance, a former venture capitalist and bestselling author, was selected as Trump’s running mate earlier this year in a move widely seen as an appeal to younger, populist conservatives. Since taking office, he has maintained a high profile and aligned closely with Trump’s America First agenda, earning praise from grassroots Republicans and establishment figures alike.

Trump’s endorsement, direct or implied, will likely play a decisive role in shaping the GOP’s direction heading into 2028. For now, Vance appears to be the leading figure to carry forward the MAGA platform, with the backing of both Trump and key Cabinet members, positioning him as a formidable force in future Republican politics.