A new contender is quietly gaining traction in the race for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, potentially challenging Vice President JD Vance’s expected path to lead the post-Trump MAGA movement. Despite Vance being widely regarded as former President Donald Trump’s political successor, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly building momentum, particularly among GOP activists in early primary states.
CNN political analyst Eric Bradner noted that Rubio, now deeply embedded within Trump’s inner political circle, is polling well in Iowa—one of the first states to cast votes during the primary season. Bradner expressed surprise at how frequently Rubio’s name surfaced during a recent Iowa visit, often mentioned alongside JD Vance.
“Both Rubio and Vance, despite their earlier criticisms of Trump, are now seen as loyal insiders,” Bradner said. “They’ve become trusted allies within Trump’s current administration.”
What gives Rubio an edge, according to Bradner, is his past experience on the presidential campaign trail. Having run in 2016, Rubio already has a rapport with voters in key early states, finishing third in Iowa during a competitive race. Many Republican voters in those areas remember him from that time, while Vance is still seen as relatively new to the national stage.
“There’s interest in Vance,” Bradner noted, “but he hasn’t yet gone through the typical vetting process that early-state voters demand. Rubio, on the other hand, is a known quantity.”
When recently asked about his own presidential ambitions, Rubio avoided the spotlight and instead praised Vance. “JD Vance would be a strong nominee—if that’s what he chooses to pursue,” Rubio said in a Fox News interview. “He’s doing a great job as vice president, and he’s a good friend.”
Although Trump remains the face of the MAGA movement, constitutional limits prohibit him from seeking a third term. Still, Trump has repeatedly hinted at a desire to run again. “I’ve never had such strong support for another run,” he said in May. “But from what I understand, it’s not allowed—constitutionally speaking.”
Nonetheless, Trump hasn’t shied away from fueling speculation. He’s even released Trump 2028 merchandise, despite legal barriers. Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee recently introduced legislation aimed at amending the 22nd Amendment to allow a third presidential term—as long as the candidate’s previous terms weren’t consecutive. The proposal appears designed specifically to benefit Trump, while simultaneously blocking former President Barack Obama from making a comeback.
Polls suggest Obama would defeat Trump in a hypothetical 2028 face-off. Partners poll showed Obama with 52% support to Trump’s 41%. Obama’s lead was driven by overwhelming support among Hispanic and Black voters, as well as independents.
Some Trump supporters have floated creative legal workarounds. One idea: if a close ally like Vance won the presidency in 2028 and appointed Trump as vice president, Vance could resign after taking office—allowing Trump to reassume the presidency. Though speculative, the scenario reflects how fervent Trump’s base remains.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed Trump’s recurring third-term comments, noting that he often responds “with a smile,” but insists his popularity justifies the continued speculation. “People love the job this president is doing,” she said.
There’s also been chatter about other potential candidates. Trump has hinted at Don Trump Jr. as a possible successor, while Bradner mentioned that Senator Ted Cruz—who once bested Trump in Iowa—might try again. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also continues to be seen as a possible contender with strong support at home and nationally.
