The contest within the U.S. Republican Party for the 2028 presidential nomination has already intensified, with Vance and Rubio emerging as the most prominent potential candidates. Although Trump’s national popularity has declined, he remains dominant within the Republican Party, with most Republican voters favoring party leaders who continue his political trajectory. According to a poll by The Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos, Vance is seen as the most natural successor, closely aligning with Trump on nearly all issues and displaying a populist, confrontational political style. However, some party insiders question whether he can sustain Trump’s coalition without Trump himself. Rubio, meanwhile, is viewed by certain Republicans as a possible restart candidate for the presidency. He has played a central role in foreign policy and retains a more traditional conservative political demeanor. Trump has publicly praised both Vance and Rubio, stating that if they were to form a tandem, they would be “unstoppable.”
Aside from these two frontrunners, several other figures represent second-tier contenders vying for attention. Potential candidates opposing or diverging from Trump or the MAGA path include Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, and Representative Thomas Massie. Texas Senator Cruz is actively trying to distinguish himself from Vance, particularly on foreign policy and controversial far-right media figures. Despite controversies surrounding his management at the Pentagon and the Iran conflict, Hergerseath still enjoys support from segments of the hardline right. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis remains active in conservative media and events. Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of Donald Trump, is attempting to position himself as the “authentic MAGA heir.” Media personalities such as former Fox News host Tucker Carlson could also emerge as dark horses—especially after openly splitting with Trump over the Iran war, potentially challenging Vance and Rubio under the banner of being the “true MAGA successor.”
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866950210408457/
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