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Republican 2028 primary: Vance leads, Cruz and Rubio in mix

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2026-09-11 08:53 UTC → 2026-09-11 09:54 UTC · added ~~removed~~

By mid-September 2026, the Republican struggle for the 2028 nomination has centered on potential successors to the MAGA era. While Vice President JD Vance has maintained a lead in primary polling, new data highlights the gap between the frontrunners; a Financial Times poll indicated 42% of Republican voters favor Vance, compared to 18% for Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio, who has taken on significant responsibilities within the current administration, recently stated from Colombia that he ‘does not currently foresee entering a race.’ This follows previous speculation that Rubio might step aside if Vance pursues the nomination, though some commentators suggest Rubio could secure the seat with little opposition if Vance declines to run. Senator Ted Cruz has reaffirmed his ambitions, stating, ‘It’s no secret that I want to be president.’ In an effort to align himself with the current movement, Cruz has signaled a shift from his previous rivalry with Donald Trump. During an appearance on the Fox News podcast ‘Hang Out with Sean Hannity,’ Cruz praised Trump’s aggressive political tactics, describing the former use of the nickname ‘Lyin’ Ted’ as ‘political genius.’ President Trump has addressed Cruz’s interest, describing him as a ‘very talented’ and ‘very good friend’ who ‘might’ pursue the presidency. Trump continues to maintain an ambiguous stance toward the 2028 cycle, occasionally wearing ‘2028’ apparel and joking about a third term, despite constitutional limits. During the Republican National Convention, Vance utilized his platform to reinforce his position as a leading figure of the MAGA era by focusing on traditional family values. Reports suggest Trump has privately expressed a desire for Vance to lead the party after 2028.

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