Vice President JD Vance has emerged as the overwhelming favorite to secure the Republican nomination for president in 2028, according to new polling that places him far ahead of the rest of the field.
The survey shows Vance commanding 46% support among registered GOP voters—more than five times the backing of his closest competitors. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis comes in at 8%, followed by Ohio businessman Vivek Ramaswamy at 7%. Other potential contenders, including Senators Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and former Ambassador Nikki Haley, each register between 5% and 6%.
Vance’s strong position is credited to his close alignment with President Donald Trump’s agenda, particularly on key issues such as border security, economic nationalism, and American manufacturing. His public visibility, combined with his bestselling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy” and previous Senate experience, have helped elevate his national profile.
While President Trump has not formally endorsed a successor, he has publicly praised Vance as a capable leader, fueling further speculation about Vance’s eventual bid.
Even in hypothetical matchups that include Donald Trump Jr., Vance maintains a significant lead, signaling that the Republican base sees him as the natural standard-bearer for the post-Trump era.
With more than two years until the primary season begins, Vance’s early momentum has positioned him as the GOP’s clear frontrunner and a defining voice in shaping the party’s future direction.