Rove Warns Against Nominating JD Vance in 2028
Republican strategist Karl Rove disagreed with the notion that the GOP should back Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 presidential race, calling it “a mistake.”
During a conversation with CNN’s Patrick Svitek at the Texas Tribune Festival, Rove discussed the rarity of sitting presidents endorsing their vice presidents for the presidency, highlighting that it has only occurred twice in U.S. history.
Svitek had asked, “In light of the midterms, how might the Republican primary unfold? What if Trump supports Vance, resulting in no real competition? Would that be a mistake, and do you think a more open primary would be beneficial?”
Rove replied firmly, stating, “It would be a mistake.” He referenced the historic contexts of such endorsements—specifically mentioning Andrew Jackson endorsing Martin Van Buren in 1836 and Ronald Reagan supporting George H.W. Bush in 1988.
Rove elaborated on Reagan’s endorsement of Bush, which came after the primaries and the Republican National Convention. He explained that Reagan understood the need for change in presidential elections.
He noted, “Reagan recognized that Bush had to convey he would bring a different approach, not merely replicate his predecessor.”
According to Rove, both Republicans and Democrats require open contests, stressing that the American political landscape is suffering due to the influence of Super PACs and big personalities. “Our parties are fractured and weakened,” he added.
He cautioned that if Trump endorses Vance for the presidential bid, Vance might emerge as the nominee simply due to Trump’s substantial influence within the party.
Rove’s remarks come amidst a prolonged disagreement with former President Donald Trump regarding various aspects of Trump’s political strategies and policies.
In a Truth Social post from September 14, Trump criticized Rove, stating he was detrimental to the Republican Party and often mistaken in his views. Trump claimed Rove suffers from “Trump Derangement Syndrome” and questioned why certain media platforms still promote him.
