US presidential election 2028: Rubio could be Republicans' choice
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (photo: Getty Images)
Republicans seem to be leaning more and more toward Marco Rubio as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election. The Secretary of State is seen as moderate, young, and composed, in contrast to Donald Trump himself or Vice President JD Vance, according to Politico.
Rubio is gaining momentum as a potential presidential candidate, despite previously being considered an unlikely contender. His role as Secretary of State has increased his support both within the White House and among rank-and-file Trump (MAGA) supporters.
"Trump loves the zeal of a convert and it's a welcome contrast to some old-school Republican elites who shunned the party or avoided Washington rather than reconcile with the president," the outlet writes.
It notes that last month, pollsters recorded a sharp rise in Rubio's support — to 35% compared to 3% a year earlier. Meanwhile, Vice President Vance's approval rating fell from 61% to 53%.
Other data show that in April, Vance received 63% support as a potential candidate, while Rubio had 42%. In September, the figures were 65% versus 33%.
Discussions inside the White House already include the Secretary of State as a possible successor, according to two senior administration officials and five other sources close to the administration.
Rubio himself has previously said he would not challenge Vance in the primaries, meaning the vice president would have to step aside for Rubio to become a candidate.
Trump may make a final decision on his successor after the midterm elections in November, the media reports.
Where Trump clashes with his own party
Beyond domestic issues, Donald Trump also faces criticism for his foreign policy, not only due to the war in Iran. Republicans are dissatisfied with his push to distance the United States from Europe. In the EU, there are also concerns that following Trump's course could harm the Union.
In addition, Trump has made controversial statements about a possible theoretical break with NATO, calling the alliance obsolete. This puts major US defense industries that benefit from NATO contracts at risk, as the alliance could eventually transition, though not quickly, toward its own defense production. For example, the EU is planning to move away from US-made fighter jets.
Moreover, media reports suggest that Europe, in response to US threats of potentially leaving NATO, has begun secretly preparing a plan that would allow it to defend itself independently from Russia, without American troops or security guarantees.
