Trump Probes Donor Sentiment on 2028 Succession Rivals
President Donald Trump is employing an unconventional strategy to assess popularity ahead of the 2028 race for his successor, pitting Vice President JD Vance against Secretary of State Marco Rubio. At a dinner with donors at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump solicited opinions on his top two lieutenants, just one day after launching military action against Iran. This marks a recurring tactic in Trump's inner circle consultations.
Donor Applause and Early Polling Insights
During the event, which featured jumbo crab and rib-eye steaks, attendees reportedly applauded more loudly for Rubio than for Vance, according to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal. Vance, aged 41, and Rubio, aged 54, both former senators and football enthusiasts, are central figures in Trump's 2028 considerations, with their appeal varying regionally across the United States.
An exclusive survey by the Daily Mail and JL Partners reveals that Vance currently leads early polling for the GOP's 2028 presidential nomination. Nineteen percent of respondents identified Vance as the most influential member of Trump's inner circle, while Rubio followed with 12 percent. The poll, conducted among 1,020 registered voters from March 2 to March 3, has a margin of error of 3.1 percent.
Contrasting Styles and Public Personas
Vance's background combines midwestern charm, hillbilly roots, an Ivy League education, and Silicon Valley experience, endearing him to the 'new right' including figures like Donald Trump Jr, Tucker Carlson, and prominent donors. In contrast, Rubio's fluency in Spanish and high-profile diplomatic efforts have established him as a skilled statesman, known for relatable moments such as viral renditions of popular songs.
Despite their rivalry, Vance has publicly stated that Rubio is his closest friend in the administration, a sentiment echoed in their frequent laughter together at White House events. However, Trump has highlighted philosophical differences, noting Vance was 'less enthusiastic' about the Iran conflict, while praising Rubio's diplomatic finesse as using a 'velvet glove' approach.
Political Dynamics and Future Prospects
Trump has repeatedly lauded Rubio as potentially the greatest diplomat in U.S. history, yet he has also suggested Vance is the likely heir to the Republican legacy. The President has floated the idea of a Vance-Rubio partnership, indicating both could collaborate in some form. Rubio has reciprocated by expressing support for Vance if he runs in 2028, denying any animosity between them.
Recent polling shows Rubio's approval rating dipped from 40 percent in February to 36 percent following the Iran strikes, with 34 percent disapproving. Meanwhile, Vance maintains a stronger influence over Trump, according to the latest data. Representatives for both officials did not immediately comment on these developments, underscoring the ongoing speculation around the 2028 succession battle.
