JD Vance confirmed for 2028? Trump sparks frenzy, President names VP as 'most likely' MAGA successor

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Tuesday that Vice President JD Vance is “most likely” his heir apparent to serve as the Republican nominee in 2028, the furthest he has gone in backing Vance as a future presidential candidate. “Well, I think most likely,” Trump told reporters when asked whether Vance was the heir apparent to the movement he has inspired. “In all fairness, he’s the vice president.” Trump also proposed that Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio join forces for a future Republican ticket. While the 2028 race is still years away, Trump holds considerable influence with the Republican base, and any sign that he is backing a candidate carries significant implications. Trump has declined in the past to offer any endorsement for a 2028 successor. He said in February that Vance was “very capable” but that it was too early to name him as the leading candidate.