Trump Declines to Pick 2028 Successor From Three Leading Republican Contenders

Donald Trump faced a direct question about which Republican should lead the party's ticket in 2028, but the sitting president declined to name a preference.

The constitutional limitation preventing him from seeking a third term has made the succession question increasingly urgent for the Republican establishment. Three figures have emerged as the frontrunners in internal party discussions: Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Trump's son Donald Trump Jr.

During a Fortune interview—conducted with Vance present—Trump was asked to select one of the three. Rather than endorsing any individual, he offered a measured response about the stakes involved. "Whoever gets this is going to be very important," he said. "And if you get the wrong person: disaster."

Recent polling data reveals a significant shift in the Republican base's preferences. According to The New York Times, a survey conducted by AtlasIntel in early May showed Rubio gaining substantial ground. While Vance had dominated previous polling—including one where he secured 60% support—Rubio now leads by 15 points in the most recent survey. Trump Jr. registered 0% in the latest poll, though he previously placed second with 20% in an earlier survey.

Another potential contender, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, polled at 11% in the most recent measurement. When asked during an appearance on Hang Out with Sean Hannity in March whether he might pursue another presidential campaign after suspending his 2024 effort, DeSantis offered a noncommittal response. "We'll see," he said.

DeSantis reflected on his 2024 experience, noting that supporters frequently identified him as their second choice behind Trump. He suggested that in Iowa, Trump voters would have overwhelmingly backed him had the former president not been in the race. "They wanted me," he stated, adding that the timing "didn't work out."

Earlier this month, Trump conducted an informal poll of his own at a campaign event, asking supporters to voice their preference between Vance and Rubio for the top spot. He characterized the prospect of the two running together as "a dream."

When Politico inquired about potential tension between the two men, Vance downplayed any rivalry. He described Rubio as a "very, very dear friend."

Trump also addressed questions about whether his successor could replicate his approach to international negotiations. When asked if the next president would be able to continue brokering "America-first deals" with the same effectiveness, Trump offered little reassurance. "Can't answer that question," he said. "I don't know. I mean, it's not going to happen again."