President Donald Trump reportedly conducted an informal show-of-hands poll among Republican donors and allies during a private gathering at Mar-a-Lago, asking attendees whom they preferred as his potential successor for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination.
According to attendees cited in the report, roughly 25 prominent Republican figures and donors were present, including New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. When Trump asked whether the room favored Secretary of State Marco Rubio or Vice President JD Vance, Rubio’s name reportedly drew the strongest response, with loud cheers and clear support from most of those in attendance.
The moment underscores early maneuvering within the Republican Party as speculation grows about the party’s leadership after Trump. Rubio’s standing among some GOP donors has reportedly increased following his role in recent foreign policy developments, while Vance has generally been viewed as the leading figure among grassroots supporters.
Neither Rubio nor Vance has formally announced plans to run in 2028. Trump has publicly praised both men in recent months and has at times suggested they could appear together on a future Republican ticket.
