President Donald Trump still looms over American politics, but speculation is already shifting toward who might lead the Republican Party after his second term. While Trump has occasionally mused about pursuing an unconstitutional third run, few observers expect it to happen. That leaves the GOP facing a wide-open, high-stakes battle in 2028.
Here’s a look at the leading contenders, according to insiders and early maneuverings.
1. Vice President JD Vance
JD Vance is the clear favorite to inherit Trump’s mantle. The vice president, once a sharp Trump critic, has been fully embraced by the MAGA base. His bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy cemented his image as a voice for working-class America, and his isolationist foreign policy instincts align neatly with Trump’s.
Vance is combative with the press but less polarizing than some Trump-era figures. Still, missteps — like past jibes about “childless cat ladies” — suggest his political instincts aren’t flawless. For now, though, he is the frontrunner.
2. Donald Trump Jr.
A second Trump at the top of the ticket is a real possibility. Donald Trump Jr. has cultivated a following through his aggressive social media presence, his podcast Triggered, and business ventures. The question: would Trump’s base transfer their loyalty to his son?
His candidacy would carry many of his father’s liabilities, without the same proven magnetism. Yet the family name alone ensures he would be a force in the race.
3. Sen. Tom Cotton (Ark.)
Cotton, a military veteran, sat out the 2024 race and preserved his standing with the base. Hawkish on foreign policy and adept at red-meat political fights, Cotton has positioned himself as a fierce defender of Trump and critic of perceived overreach by federal investigators. A strong speaker with grassroots appeal, he would be formidable.
4. Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas)
Cruz, once Trump’s fiercest primary rival, has since made his peace with the former president. Known for his uncompromising conservatism, Cruz remains one of the most recognizable Republicans in America. But lingering distrust within MAGA circles could cap his ceiling.
5. Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Rubio has rehabilitated himself inside Trump’s circle, serving as Secretary of State and defending administration policies. He straddles the line between MAGA isolationism and traditional GOP hawkishness. Yet his career has long been marked by unmet expectations, and voters may be skeptical of a second act.
6. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis
DeSantis, once Trump’s chief 2024 rival, is trying to revive his standing through hardline immigration policies, including the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center. Despite setbacks, his combative style and Florida base make him a perennial contender — though his underwhelming 2024 run still haunts him.
7. Sen. Josh Hawley (Mo.)
Hawley has carved out a populist lane, criticizing corporate power and allying with progressives on labor and credit card reforms. His social conservatism and role on Jan. 6 make him a polarizing figure, but his working-class message could resonate if the GOP base seeks a new populist standard-bearer.
8. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (Ga.)
Greene would be the most explosive option. Since entering Congress, she has clashed with Democrats, Republicans, and even MAGA influencers. Recently, she stunned colleagues by labeling Israel’s actions in Gaza “genocide” and accusing her own party of betraying “America First.” Her national electability is dubious, but her profile is undeniable.
9. Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.)
Scott is respected across GOP factions and well-liked personally. As the only Black Republican senator, he could broaden the party’s appeal. But his past presidential bids fizzled, and there’s little evidence he could leapfrog the bigger names in 2028.
The Big Picture
The Republican Party in 2028 will still be living in Trump’s shadow, whether the nominee is his vice president, his son, or a rival molded by MAGA politics. The coming years will test whether loyalty to Trump’s movement can outlast Trump himself — or whether a new standard-bearer can redefine the GOP for the post-Trump era.
