U.S. president Donald Trump suggested on Tuesday that Vice President JD Vance is “most likely” to secure the Republican Party nomination for president in 2028.
Vance, a former Marine and lawyer, has taken on a prominent role in the administration, acting as chief domestic policy advocate and key diplomatic envoy.
Trump has avoided naming a preferred successor and said in February that, while Vance was “very capable,” it was too soon to make such calls.
Asked on Tuesday whether Vance was the heir-apparent to his Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, Trump told reporters: “Well, I think most likely.”
“In all fairness, he’s the vice president,” he said.
The remarks followed speculation that Trump might attempt to defy constitutional limits and seek a third term.
“It’s too early, obviously, to talk about it, but certainly he’s doing a great job,” Trump said.
“And he would be probably favored at this point.”
Trump also floated the idea of Vance teaming up with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to create a formidable Republican ticket.
The vice president has suggested that he could run for president in the 2028 election, but only after consulting with Trump.
