Vice President JD Vance remains the clear frontrunner for the 2028 Republican presidential primary, commanding 36% support among Republicans and right-leaning Independents in the latest polling, as President Trump continues to publicly endorse him for the race.
In a June 3 podcast interview with The New York Post’s “Pod Force One,” Trump said that Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio running together as a team would be “very unbeatable.” Trump stated, “They’re very talented. And I think the two of them running together as a team would be very unbeatable.” He added that he “likes them both” and “likes them together,” though he noted that “they have to agree to it.”
The endorsement reflects a shift in Trump’s public posture toward Vance. In late May, the New York Times reported that Trump had privately questioned Vance’s political viability in conversations with aides and allies. But by early June, Trump was publicly promoting Vance as a leading contender for the Republican nomination.
Vance’s polling strength was confirmed in a new survey conducted June 1-4 by Noble Predictive Insights for The Center Square, released June 13. The poll found Vance leading the field by roughly double the support of his nearest rival, Marco Rubio, who garnered 17% support. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came in third at 7%, while 17% of voters remained unsure of their preference.
The Vice President has previously downplayed speculation about a 2028 run. In May, when asked about his presidential ambitions, Vance told reporters, “I’m not a potential future candidate. I’m a Vice President, and I really like my job.” He has not formally announced plans to run for president in 2028, though political observers widely view him as a top contender for the Republican nomination.
Vance performed particularly well among younger voters in the polling, capturing 43% support among those aged 18-29. He also led across demographic groups by education and income levels, and was favored by each racial group surveyed, though he polled lowest among Black respondents at 21% support.
Sources
- Time Magazine — Trump’s June 3, 2026 endorsement of Vance and Rubio as an unbeatable 2028 ticket
- The Center Square — June 13, 2026 polling data showing Vance at 36% in the 2028 GOP primary
- The New York Times — May 30, 2026 reporting on Trump’s private doubts about Vance’s viability
- ABC News affiliate (WSYX) — May 19, 2026 reporting of Vance’s statement that he is focused on his current job as Vice President
