Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated privately that he won’t run for president in 2028 if Vice President J.D. Vance decides to enter the race. This comes from a report by Politiko, citing unnamed sources close to Rubio.
Some of these sources suggest it’s a practical move. One remarked that “Marco was very clear that JD would be the Republican nominee if he wanted to,” emphasizing Rubio’s intention to support Vance. Another source mentioned that it was unexpected for Rubio to leave his post and challenge the current vice president, particularly given their friendship.
There’s an emerging belief that Vance plans to run for president with Rubio likely as his vice presidential candidate. By 2028, Rubio will be 57, which positions him well, while Vance would be 44 this year, making him eligible for another run in his 50s after two terms.
Both have adequate time on their side. President Trump has recognized them both as potential successors within the party. Choosing between them feels almost like a luxury; both are talented politicians who would likely guide the Republican Party effectively. Vance, for instance, carries a natural talent for engaging with people and articulating complex ideas—it’s impressive, especially considering he was born the year I graduated high school. His ease in presenting himself stands out.
Rubio, on the other hand, has a kind of charisma that seems to have evolved through substantial effort. The awkwardness he displayed during the 2016 election has faded; he’s more composed and self-assured now, similar to Vance.
Both are widely respected and would make strong contenders for the presidency in 2028. However, a lot can happen in the coming years. The midterm elections will be telling, as will the state of the economy. If Democrats regain control of the House, the impact of any investigations targeting Vance or Rubio could also play a role.
A concern for some is the possibility of Vance securing the nomination simply by announcing his candidacy. Politicians often face a choice: either to run unopposed—which can lead to complacency—or to actively brace for competition in the primaries. It’s often wiser to shake off any rust early on, right?
I’m a bit uncertain about that.
Right now, it seems like Governor Gavin Newsom might be the Democratic nominee in 2028, following what some consider a significant victory in redistricting. He may not be the best governor, but he does have political skills. Whomever the Republican candidate is, it would be wise to prepare thoroughly before the general election.
Again, I can’t say for sure.
An unexpected primary challenge could shake things up, reminiscent of Pat Buchanan’s run against George H.W. Bush in 1992, which brought forth a little-known Arkansas governor and his wife who eventually made it to the Oval Office.
Looking at past candidates like Mitt Romney or John McCain, it’s clear that tough primaries don’t always lead to strong candidates in the general election.
At this stage, it’s all hypothetical. Three years is quite a long time, and much can change. But if I were to assess our current lineup, I think we might be in a better position than the opposition.
