Poll Indicates Strong Support for JD Vance in 2028 Republican Primary
Vice President JD Vance appears to be the front-runner for the 2028 Republican presidential primary, according to a recent poll. This survey, conducted by JL Partners, shows that 46% of registered voters are leaning towards Vance as the potential successor to President Trump, while other candidates are struggling to secure significant support.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is making another attempt for the GOP nomination, garnered just 8%. Meanwhile, Ohio Governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy received 7%, and both Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas captured 6%. South Carolina Governor and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley sits at 5% in this poll.
Vance, a Yale Law graduate and former venture capitalist, gained notable attention with his memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy.” He has been a staunch supporter of Trump, particularly during his own 2022 Senate campaign.
During last July’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Trump praised Vance, emphasizing that “Hillbilly Elegy” advocated for the hardworking individuals in the country.
At just 40 years old, Vance stands out as a clear communicator on critical issues, including immigration, trade, and social matters, influenced by his Catholic beliefs.
Rubio, at 53, has earned a reputation as one of Trump’s most trusted cabinet members. He also plays a key role in overseeing the National Archives and USAID, functioning as a national security advisor.
In a recent statement, Trump expressed confidence in the future of his “Make America Great Again” movement, indicating strength within the party.
“Look at Marco, look at JD Vance, who’s fantastic,” Trump said in an NBC News interview.
Trump, while not directly naming Vance as a potential successor, noted that his relationship with Rubio remains strong despite any competitive dynamics.
“He’s probably my best friend in the administration,” Vance shared with Rubio’s Fox News. “We always hang out and talk.”
Ramaswamy previously co-chaired the Department of Government Efficiency during Trump’s transition and has hinted at the possibility of another presidential bid before announcing his candidacy for Ohio Governor in February.
JL Partners’ research manager, Caroline Mulvaney, mentioned that Vance could gain traction from voters who support other candidates unlikely to be on the 2028 ticket.
If Rubio obtains the nomination, about 57% of Republican voters are expected to back him, according to the same polls.
On the Democratic side, former Vice President Kamala Harris leads with 30% support among voters in a hypothetical primary, while Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg follows with only 8%. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and California’s Gavin Newsom each have 7%, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from the Bronx and Queens has 6%.
Trump has previously hinted at a potential partnership with Vance on the 2028 GOP ticket. However, congressional Republicans have voiced concerns about his eligibility due to the 22nd Amendment of the Constitution.
Both DeSantis and Haley challenged Trump in the 2024 Republican primary. DeSantis withdrew after finishing second in the Iowa Caucus, while Haley terminated her campaign after a series of defeats on Super Tuesday.
Following a surprising win in Iowa during the 2016 primaries, Cruz has also expressed interest in a future run amidst speculations surrounding the upcoming election.
Vance’s current lead remains significant; he commands 40% support, particularly with the introduction of Donald Trump Jr. to the candidate list, who stands at 14%.
This poll reflects opinions collected from 975 registered voters from May 13-14, with a margin of error of 3.1%—a finding initially reported by a UK news outlet.
