Trump Backs JD Vance as ‘Most Likely’ 2028 Republican Flag Bearer

President Donald Trump has named Vice President JD Vance as the “most likely” Republican flag bearer

In a move that has set the stage for the 2028 U.S. presidential race, President Donald Trump has named Vice President JD Vance as the “most likely” Republican flag bearer to succeed him. The endorsement, made during a press interaction in New York on Tuesday, underscores Trump's growing confidence in Vance as the future face of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.

This marks the first time Trump has publicly positioned anyone as his preferred successor, ending months of speculation within the GOP ranks.

Trump: “He’s the Vice President… Most Likely”

While Trump has previously described Vance as “very capable,” he had maintained a cautious stance on naming a successor, often stating it was too early for such decisions. However, when asked directly on Tuesday if Vance was the heir to the MAGA legacy, Trump replied, “Well, I think most likely.”

“In all fairness, he’s the vice president,” Trump added, a remark that observers interpret as an implicit nod to Vance’s rising stature.

The comment also follows months of right-wing chatter about Trump potentially seeking a third term an act that would defy the U.S. Constitution’s two-term limit. Trump dismissed that possibility in an interview with CNBC’s Squawk Box, saying, “I’d like to, but I’ll probably not run again. I have the best poll numbers I’ve ever had.”

Nonetheless, “Trump 2028” merchandise continues to be sold on his campaign store, with slogans like “Rewrite the Rules” and “Keep America Winning.”

Vance-Rubio 2028?

Trump also teased the possibility of a “dream team” ticket in 2028 that could include current Secretary of State Marco Rubio alongside Vance. “I think Marco is also somebody that maybe would get together with JD in some form,” Trump said, hinting at a strategic alliance.

Political analysts suggest this potential pairing could unite different factions of the Republican base: Vance appeals to MAGA conservatives and populists, while Rubio garners support from more traditional Republicans and Latino voters.

Expert Reactions

Dr. Eleanor Brooks, a professor of political science at Georgetown University, described Trump’s endorsement as “a significant pivot from his usual ambiguity on succession.” According to her, “JD Vance now becomes the de facto front-runner, and other potential candidates will need to recalibrate their strategies.”

David Frum, former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, warned that “Trump’s influence over the GOP remains so powerful that his word alone could determine the 2028 nominee—regardless of traditional vetting processes or primary outcomes.”

JD Vance’s Steady Rise

JD Vance, author of the memoir Hillbilly Elegy and former venture capitalist, was initially seen as a longshot when he entered politics. However, his loyalty to Trump and vocal defense of MAGA policies won him favor. Since becoming Vice President, Vance has overseen several high-profile domestic initiatives, including the controversial “American Family First” agenda and conservative education reforms.

Supporters see him as Trump’s ideological twin but with a more intellectual tone—someone who can energize Trump’s base while appealing to independents and younger voters.

What This Means for the GOP

With Trump’s early nod to Vance could shape the next generation of Republican leadership. “It’s not just about winning elections anymore,” said Carly Hastings, a senior analyst at the Brookings Institution. “It’s about shaping a long-term ideological legacy.”

Trump’s official endorsement might still come later, but his statement on Tuesday already signals that JD Vance is now the presumed leader-in-waiting for the Republican Party.