Former President Donald Trump has stated that it is premature to discuss endorsements for the 2028 Republican presidential primary, addressing reports that he had told donors they "need to elect JD" Vance. When questioned about the leaked comments, Trump acknowledged Vance is "great" but emphasized that "we're way too early to even be thinking about that."
The Washington Post reported, citing individuals familiar with a recent donor meeting in the Oval Office, that Trump had indicated a need to elect Vance. The report also suggested Trump has been seeking opinions on both Vance and Senator Marco Rubio as potential contenders for 2028.
Despite Trump's noncommittal stance on an official endorsement, Vance maintains a strong position in early polling among Republican primary voters. A recent Daily Mail/JL Partners poll shows Vance leading with 48 percent, a three-point decrease, while Rubio has climbed to 18 percent. Rubio has previously stated he would not challenge Vance in a primary.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is polling at 12 percent, and Texas Senator Ted Cruz at 5 percent. In a hypothetical head-to-head matchup, Vance leads Rubio 60 percent to 29 percent.
Vance has not officially announced a presidential campaign but has signaled consideration for a 2028 bid. He and his wife welcomed their fourth child, Alec Neel Vance, on July 19, making him the first sitting vice president to have a child in office in 156 years. Vance has indicated that he and his wife will discuss their future plans after the 2026 midterms.
Public opinion within the Republican party suggests a desire for Trump's continued involvement in shaping the party's future. Seventy-five percent of Republicans believe Trump should be involved in selecting the 2028 nominee, with 44 percent wanting him "very involved."