Trump privately backs VP Vance for 2028 presidential run, report says

President Donald Trump has privately expressed a desire for his former Vice President, JD Vance, to win the 2028 presidential election, according to sources cited by The Washington Post. During a meeting with donors two weeks prior, Trump reportedly stated, "In any case, we have to get JD elected." This private endorsement marks a shift from his public stance over the past year, during which he consistently declined to name a preferred successor, instead suggesting Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio could form a strong presidential ticket.

Despite these private remarks, Trump continues to solicit opinions on Vance and Rubio from those around him. A White House official noted that Trump inquired about the two during a recent flight on Marine One. While one presidential advisor familiar with Trump's comments to donors believes Vance is the presumptive Republican nominee, they cautioned that it is "too early to tell" when Vance might announce his candidacy or when Trump might publicly endorse him.

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In any case, we have to get JD elected.

However, a significant portion of Trump's advisors and allies, numbering around six, remain unconvinced that Vance is the definitive choice. They emphasize Trump's tendency to tell different people different things and his potential to change his mind. These individuals suggest Trump will delay any public declaration to avoid being perceived as a "lame duck" president. An official familiar with Trump's "polling" of Vance and Rubio on Marine One commented, "Anyone who thinks the game is over is either jumping the gun or doesn't know the president very well."

Vance himself has not confirmed his intentions for 2028. Sources close to him indicate he has not made a decision and plans to do so after the birth of his fourth child, which occurred on July 19. Vance previously told CBS in June that he would discuss the matter with his wife after the midterm elections, expressing confidence in Trump's "tremendous support" for any decision he makes. He has consistently stated his focus on his current duties and maintains a friendly relationship with Rubio. Nevertheless, the prospect of succession has already created some tension, with donors, activists, and party figures taking sides.

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Anyone who thinks the game is over is either jumping the gun or doesn't know the president very well.