Vice President JD Vance expressed uncertainty about receiving President Donald Trump’s endorsement if he decides to run for president in 2028. This sentiment was shared during an interview with journalist Mark Halperin on the 2Way platform, just weeks before the midterm elections.
Vance emphasized that his main focus remains on the upcoming midterm elections. He conveyed that he is unsure about his candidacy for the 2028 election, but stated, “I think if I run, the president will endorse me.”
“Right away?” Halperin inquired.
Vance replied, “I would think so, but I don’t know, man. I haven’t talked to him about it.” The discussion came amid speculation following Trump’s comments at a Dallas convention in September 2026. Halperin suggested it might be unusual if Vance shared his ambitions without securing Trump’s endorsement first.
Vance countered, “No, I don’t think it’d be weird. I think I would get his endorsement, but I also believe there’s value in running one’s own race. The president’s endorsement is influential, yet allowing the race to unfold naturally is important.”
During the conversation, Halperin referenced Vance’s prior assertion that whoever receives Trump’s endorsement would likely win the Republican primary. Vance agreed, noting the profound impact of Trump’s endorsement among voters. Trump’s reputation among everyday voters, contrasted with his initial rejection by Republican elites, adds weight to his endorsements.
“The endorsement from Trump signals to voters that a candidate is not tied to the party elite,” Vance explained. “Trump’s endorsement carries unprecedented weight. It suggests that if Trump backs someone, the elites might oppose them. This endorsement is uniquely influential, although voters ultimately decide.”
Vance’s comments followed Trump’s earlier remarks about potentially endorsing Vance or Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the 2028 race. Both Vance and Rubio were referred to as a “dream team” by Trump, yet he did not clarify who he would support as the leading candidate.
Vance highlighted his friendship with Rubio, stating, “I love Marco. He’s a great Secretary of State and a dear friend. However, we are committed to working on behalf of the American people right now.”
In light of Trump’s previous comments and Vance’s uncertainties, the dynamics of a potential 2028 presidential race remain speculative.