Vance weighs sitting out 2028 after GOP's Nov. 3 loss
Vice President J.D. Vance is considering skipping the 2028 presidential race as Republican allies question his path following the party's defeat in the midterms.
By Naomi Tesfaye ·
Vice President J.D. Vance is seriously considering not running for president in 2028. He faces a fractured base and personal constraints after Republicans suffered a major loss in the congressional elections held on November 3.
Vance was previously the leading favorite to succeed Donald Trump. However, CNN reported on Friday that the 42-year-old has doubts about the current state of the MAGA movement. These concerns are compounded by the demands of raising children.
One source familiar with the deliberations said, “No me sorprendería ninguna decisión que tome.” The source noted that Vance is young enough to recover if the political climate prevents him from winning now. Another ally stated, “Si no terminan la guerra con Irán, ningún republicano tendrá posibilidades en 2028.”
Vance, a former senator from Ohio, blamed the midterm defeat on the war in Iran. President Trump ordered that conflict in February. Polls show voters reject the offensive and the rising cost of living, particularly high gasoline prices linked to the war.
Trump has not officially named a successor. He has mentioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a potential candidate, although Rubio recently denied plans to leave the State Department to distance himself from the White House.
Other Republicans are signaling their own ambitions. Senator Ted Cruz and former Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have criticized the party’s electoral performance. Their remarks suggest they may seek the nomination in 2028.
Vance has not officially announced his intentions for the 2028 election. Trump will not be eligible for reelection in that cycle. Vance previously expressed confidence that he would have the president's backing if he entered the race.
