Trump privately told donors he wants to elect JD Vance as his successor in 2028, marking a shift from his public neutrality on potential Republican nominees.
The remarks came during an Oval Office meeting roughly two weeks ago, according to The Washington Post. Trump has spent the past year publicly praising both Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio without clearly favoring either candidate.
What Trump Said
“At the end of the day, we need to elect JD,” Trump told supporters in the private meeting, the Post reported Thursday. The statement represents Trump’s clearest indication yet of a preference for his vice president in the coming presidential race.
Some Trump advisers have cautioned that the president frequently keeps his options open and is unlikely to issue a formal endorsement soon, according to the Post. Trump may be wary of appearing as a lame-duck president during his term.
Vance’s Position
Vance has repeatedly stated he remains focused on his current role as vice president and has not made a final decision about 2028. In June, he told CBS News he expects to discuss a potential presidential run with his family after the 2026 midterm elections.
The vice president expressed confidence that Trump would support whatever decision he makes, according to his comments to CBS News. Trump has been impressed with Vance’s work on Iran negotiations, federal benefit program fraud reduction, and media appearances defending the administration, the Post reported.
The Competition
Rubio remains a respected figure within the administration but faces significant demands as secretary of state and national security adviser. Trump has reportedly considered a Vance-Rubio ticket, though Rubio’s interest in a vice presidential role remains unclear.
An Emerson College poll found Vance leading the GOP field with 39% support, narrowly ahead of Rubio at 38%, according to reporting highlighted by Newsmax. The results suggest the 2028 Republican nomination battle remains competitive despite Vance’s perceived advantage.
The Pushback
Some establishment conservatives have already criticized Vance’s potential rise as Trump’s heir. Wall Street Journal opinion writers have raised concerns about the vice president’s leadership style, foreign policy positions, and relationship with commentator Tucker Carlson, Axios reported Sunday.
Vance’s allies argue the criticism actually strengthens his standing with Republican grassroots voters. The debate reflects a broader divide within the GOP between the party’s pre-Trump establishment and its America First wing.