Political analysts are increasingly suggesting that Democrats may be underestimating Vice President JD Vance as a potential contender in the 2028 presidential race. During a recent livestream on his YouTube channel, Chris Cillizza, a political contributor for NewsNation, argued that overlooking Vance could be a significant strategic mistake for Democrats.

Cillizza pointed to recent polling data as evidence of Vance’s growing political strength. A survey conducted by Emerson College showed the vice president with a 46 percent favorability rating, placing him ahead of several well-known Republican and Democratic figures who could potentially run in 2028. According to Cillizza, the results reinforce his view that many Democrats have not fully recognized Vance’s appeal among voters.

Another political analyst echoed that assessment. Harry Enten, chief data analyst for CNN, recently noted that early polling suggests Vance currently holds a strong lead among potential Republican candidates. In early surveys of Republican voters, Vance received around 40 percent support, far ahead of other possible contenders.

Enten also highlighted historical trends showing that early favorites in presidential primary polling often go on to secure their party’s nomination. Since 1980, candidates who led early polls have won their party’s nomination roughly 63 percent of the time, suggesting that Vance’s early advantage could be meaningful.

Support for Vance also appears strong among conservative grassroots activists. A straw poll conducted during AmericaFest, organized by Turning Point USA, showed overwhelming support for the vice president. Vance received 84.2 percent of the vote, far ahead of other possible Republican candidates such as Marco Rubio, Ron DeSantis, and Donald Trump Jr..

Despite the speculation, Vance has publicly downplayed discussion of a presidential campaign. In a recent interview on Hannity on Fox News, he said his primary focus is on helping Republicans win upcoming midterm elections before considering any decision about 2028.

Still, his rising profile and strong early support suggest that Vance could emerge as a major figure in the next presidential contest.