Republicans are already weighing 2028 presidential candidates after Democrats swept the midterms and took control of Congress. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have emerged as the frontrunners among MAGA voters interviewed at a Trump rally in Bangor, Maine.
Trump himself has signaled support for Vance. "We need to elect JD," he told donors, according to a confirmed source, even as he considers both Vance and Rubio for the nomination.
At the Maine rally, voters expressed a clear preference for candidates who could replicate Trump's appeal. "I like that he's no-nonsense, similar to Trump," one supporter said of Rubio. Another praised the secretary of state's demeanor: "He's articulate, he's well spoken. He's got good ideas."
Vance drew similar enthusiasm. "I like JD Vance," one attendee said. "I like Marco Rubio. There's some other ones too that are maybe not so much mainstream that are coming up."
Other prominent Republicans are circulating in early 2028 discussions: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Missouri Senator Josh Hawley.
DeSantis has worked to distance himself from the midterm losses. At a Wednesday news conference, he highlighted Florida's Republican victories, suggesting his governance shielded the state from the national Republican collapse.
One voter floated a potential ticket: "I would like to see either JD and Marco, or JD and Governor DeSantis."
Cracks are already showing among potential rivals. Cruz suggested Vance is "feeling insecure," signaling the rivalry that will define the Republican primary.
With Democrats controlling both chambers, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated potential oversight battles ahead, saying Trump would face Senate investigations if he violated the law.
