MAGA Movement Expanding into Governors’ Mansions
The MAGA movement is gearing up to extend its reach into various governorships across the nation.
A number of notable allies of former President Trump are eyeing governorships, seeing these positions as a means to push the MAGA agenda beyond the nation’s capital. This strategy could also set the stage for future bids for higher office.
Looking towards the future, Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are emerging as strong contenders for the GOP ticket in 2028.
This shift could strengthen the Republican bench at the local level.
For instance, Rep. Byron Donald from Florida is running for governor, while Sen. Marsha Blackburn is vying for the Tennessee governorship.
“I think this represents the next phase of the movement,” remarked a GOP insider close to the White House. “Many involved in the movement are striving to build it up, realizing it can’t just thrive in Congress over the next 20 years.”
Republican insiders note various reasons for the surge in gubernatorial bids among Trump’s allies, particularly those from Congress. They believe these leaders recognize that raising their profiles as governors might be more effective than as legislators, especially given the potential for the party to become a minority next year amidst ongoing redistricting struggles.
Furthermore, anyone looking to run for the presidency or take on roles in a cabinet would likely benefit from having gubernatorial experience, allowing them to showcase tangible policy achievements during that time.
This sentiment rings especially true for Vance and Rubio, who are likely to steer discussions on the GOP candidates for 2028.
“It’s not just about 2028, though that’s what it hints at,” said a GOP source with ties to the White House. “These younger candidates—both Byrons and Viveks—will have opportunities to govern some of the largest states for eight years, positioning themselves for national prominence in the years that follow. It seems like they’re quite savvy.”
Trump already has allies holding governorships across the country. For example, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Trump’s former press secretary, and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, an early supporter of Trump, represent his influence at the state level. Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are both actively pushing Trump’s immigration policies within their states.
Outside of figures like Sanders and DeSantis, few GOP governors have emerged as significant companions to Trump, but the landscape could shift depending on the gubernatorial elections in the coming 16 months.
Donald previously served in the Florida House during Trump’s first term and was elected to Congress in 2020, benefiting from Trump’s involvement in the presidential race. He has been a notable figure during Trump’s legal challenges and on the campaign trail for 2024.
Blackburn first entered the Senate in 2018, closely aligned with Trump, and successfully campaigned alongside him to defeat former Governor Phil Bredesen.
Meanwhile, Ramaswamy, throughout his 2024 presidential campaign, frequently lauded Trump and adopted similar populist themes, which contributed to his initial success. Though he was appointed co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Elon Musk, he stepped back from this role when Trump assumed office.
The Bigs were first elected to Congress in 2016, coinciding with Trump’s initial rise in the polls, and they echo his stances on immigration and other key issues.
Mace’s relationship with Trump and the MAGA movement has evolved, having supported his campaign in 2016 but facing challenges after criticizing Trump’s actions on January 6, 2021. She hinted at a gubernatorial campaign with a video that showcased Trump’s past endorsements.
Trump has already endorsed Donald for Florida and Ramaswamy in Ohio, while also supporting the Bigs and Karin Taylor Robson in Arizona. He has yet to weigh in on the gubernatorial races in Tennessee and South Carolina, two pivotal races where his backing could be significant.
“Trump enjoys a high level of support among Republican voters, making his endorsement valuable,” noted a White House insider. “If you’re aware of this support, it’s time to leverage it.”
