Trump's Private Comments Fuel 2028 Buzz Around JD Vance and Marco Rubio

President Donald Trump may have offered his clearest indication yet about who he hopes will carry the Republican banner in 2028. According to Fox News , during an Oval Office meeting with donors roughly two weeks ago…

Andrew PowellAug 6, 20263 min read

2028 electionDonald TrumpJD VanceMarco RubioPoliticsU.S. News

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The Florida Republican, who challenged Trump during the 2016 GOP presidential primary, has become one of the administration's most visible officials.

Trump has repeatedly praised Rubio's work on foreign policy and earlier this year said he believes the secretary of state will be remembered as "the greatest secretary of state in history."

At the same time, the president has continued to highlight Vance's role in the administration.

During a donor event in Las Vegas this week, Trump applauded "the war on fraud led by our great Vice President JD Vance," adding that Vance is "doing a great job."

The friendly competition between the two Republicans has fueled growing interest inside the GOP, although both men have publicly downplayed any rivalry.

Appearing Wednesday on "The Ingraham Angle," Vance emphasized that the administration remains united behind Trump's leadership.

"The president runs this administration," Vance said. "When the president of the United States makes a decision, we're unified in this administration in carrying out that mission."

Vance did not discuss a possible 2028 campaign, though he previously said he plans to consider his political future after the 2026 midterm elections.

Rubio has also indicated he would support Vance if the vice president decides to run.

According to The Washington Post, Trump has continued discussing both potential successors with advisers but has not made a final decision.

Several advisers told the newspaper they expect the president to delay any formal endorsement, allowing him to maintain his political influence while avoiding shifting attention away from his administration.

For now, the emerging contest remains unofficial, with both Vance and Rubio focused on their current roles as Republicans prepare for the 2026 midterm elections.

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