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, Trump reportedly said, "At the end of the day, we need to elect JD," referring to Vice President JD Vance.
A source familiar with the remarks confirmed the comments to Fox News Digital after they were first reported by The Washington Post.
The private statement comes as speculation continues over whether Trump will eventually endorse Vance or Secretary of State Marco Rubio as his preferred successor once his second term ends.
Trump has largely avoided naming a favorite publicly, even as Vance and Rubio have emerged as the leading figures in early discussions about the Republican Party's next presidential nominee.
While Vance remains the frontrunner in many early polls and Republican straw polls, Rubio has gained ground in recent months.
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.