In a recent interview, President Donald Trump, 78, declined to endorse Vice President JD Vance, 40, as his potential successor for the 2028 Republican nomination, stating that it’s too early to make such a decision.
While acknowledging Vance’s capabilities, Trump made it clear he does not yet see him as the party’s next nominee.
Vance, who became the third-youngest Vice President in U.S. history, was chosen as Trump’s running mate in July 2024, reportedly at the encouragement of Donald Trump Jr.
During a Super Bowl interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier on February 10, Trump was directly asked if he viewed Vance as his successor. He responded, “No,” but quickly added, “But he’s very capable. I mean, I think you have a lot of very capable people. So far, I think he’s doing a fantastic job. It’s too early—we’re just starting.”
Baier noted that by the 2026 midterms, Vance would likely be seeking an endorsement from Trump if he decided to run. Trump acknowledged the possibility but pivoted to touting his administration’s early achievements.
Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum later discussed Trump’s remarks, calling them “shocking.” Baier noted that while Vance appears to be in a strong position for 2028, Trump is not yet ready to commit, suggesting other candidates could emerge.
Trump’s comments aired just as Vance was beginning his first foreign trip as Vice President, attending an AI summit in Paris before heading to the Munich Security Conference in Germany.
