President Trump has stated that it’s premature to endorse any potential successor for the 2028 presidential nomination, though discussions about the next GOP leader are already underway.
The president mentioned Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as possible candidates for the next election.
Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, hinted at a potential run himself, suggesting that “the call is there” after his father’s recent departure from the White House.
Interestingly, some governors from swing states have made moves that have raised eyebrows about Trump’s intentions in this cycle.
Here’s a look at seven likely successors to Trump for 2028.
Vice President Vance
Vance’s journey began shortly after Trump named him as his running mate last year. Once a critic of Trump, Vance has become a prominent advocate for Trump’s economic populism and isolationist policies, using the Vice Presidency to amplify Trump’s “America First” agenda.
While Trump has hinted at Vance’s potential candidacy for 2028, he has been careful not to offer explicit support.
In a recent interview with NBC, Trump remarked, “Marco is great. A lot of them are great,” while acknowledging the anticipation surrounding a future candidate.
Vance himself mentioned to NBC News last week that he doesn’t take the notion of running for granted.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Trump tapped Rubio to join his administration, where he has served as national security adviser alongside notable figures like Henry Kissinger.
This growing influence in the White House has sparked speculation about Rubio’s future, given his previous run for the presidency in 2016.
However, there are doubts among some Trump supporters regarding Rubio’s commitment, stemming from their previous rivalry during the GOP primaries when Trump called him various nicknames.
Despite past tensions, their relationship has shifted, with Rubio actively supporting Trump before key votes.
Donald Trump Jr.
While speaking at a recent economic forum in Qatar, Trump Jr. stirred speculation about his own ambitions. He remarked, “I don’t know. Maybe someday. You know, that call is there,” hinting at a possible future in politics.
Although Trump Jr. has significant experience within his father’s political realm, he lacks any formal elected office experience, which could pose challenges.
FL Governor Ron DeSantis
The rivalry between Trump and DeSantis got quite personal during the primary, but after DeSantis dropped out and endorsed Trump, their relationship appeared to mend.
DeSantis is viewed by some Republicans as a contender for the presidency, but his focus on aligning with Trump’s immigration policies is crucial for solidifying that support.
There are also potential obstacles for a DeSantis candidacy, including challenges from the state legislature and scrutiny surrounding the Hope Florida Foundation.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin
Youngkin is seen as a blueprint for Republicans aiming to win in traditionally blue states. Although he initially distanced himself from Trump during his campaign, he has left the door open for a potential 2028 run.
In a recent interview, he emphasized his commitment to serving Virginians, raising speculation about his future aspirations.
However, he faces obstacles in advancing his conservative agenda with a Democrat-controlled legislature.
Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem
Former South Dakota Governor Noem has emerged as a strong supporter of Trump and could be a potential running mate.
Her enthusiastic advocacy for Trump, along with her leadership in immigration policy, has bolstered her visibility in the political landscape.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp
Kemp recently sparked speculation regarding a 2028 presidential bid, even after declining to run against an incumbent senator. He has had a complex relationship with Trump, especially during the last election cycle.
Despite earlier tensions, they reconciled before the November elections, indicating a collaborative spirit moving forward.
Like Youngkin, Kemp’s track record in a swing state makes him an appealing figure, although his cool rapport with Trump might complicate his candidacy prospects.
