In a significant political revelation, US Vice President JD Vance has disclosed his intention to discuss a potential presidential campaign for 2028 with former President Donald Trump, but only after the crucial 2026 midterm elections conclude.
Focus on Republican Victory in 2026
During an exclusive interview with Fox News on Thursday evening, Vance acknowledged contemplating his political future while emphasizing his current responsibilities. The Vice President stated he remains dedicated to his present role despite considering what might unfold after the midterms.
"I've thought about what that moment might look like after the midterm elections," Vance revealed, adding that he consciously tries to "put it out of my head and remind myself the American people elected me to do a job right now."
Vance stressed that his immediate priority involves ensuring Republican success in the 2026 midterms. "I'm very focused on the midterm elections," he asserted. "Then after that, I'm going to sit down with the president of the United States and talk to him about it."
Protecting Trump's Legacy
The Vice President issued a stark warning about Democratic victories potentially undermining Trump's early policy initiatives. Vance expressed concern that Democratic control could jeopardize what he described as significant accomplishments from Trump's initial ten months in office.
Employing a powerful metaphor, Vance explained that some policy achievements resemble "trees that have been planted, some of which won't even bear fruit for a few years." He emphasized his determination not to let Democrats "screw that up" by reversing these initiatives.
Trump's Constitutional Limitation and GOP Succession
Vance's presidential considerations follow Trump's recent acknowledgment that the Constitution's 22nd Amendment prevents him from pursuing another term. Trump confirmed the constitutional barrier last month, stating "if you read it, it's pretty clear."
The former president expressed disappointment about the limitation, noting "I'm not allowed to run, it's too bad...I mean, it's too bad." He particularly lamented the timing, revealing "The sad thing is, I have my highest numbers that I've ever had."
Trump has consistently highlighted the Republican Party's strong roster of potential 2028 candidates. When questioned about possible successors, Trump specifically mentioned Vance alongside other prominent Republicans, stating "We have great people...we have one of them standing right here. We have JD [Vance], obviously. The vice president is great. Marco [Rubio] is great."
No Rivalry With Marco Rubio
When Fox News inquired whether Vance viewed Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a future competitor, the Vice President dismissed any suggestion of rivalry. "I don't feel like that at all," Vance responded, adding "If Marco eventually runs for president, then we can cross that bridge when we come to it."
Vance emphasized that neither man feels "entitled" to the nomination, explaining "People have asked me 'do you see Marco as a rival,' and first of all, if either of us end up running, it's a long ways in the future...No, Marco is a colleague."
The Vice President's remarks provide intriguing insights into the Republican Party's future leadership planning and the careful political calculations underway as the 2026 midterms approach.
