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3w ago

Marco Rubio Challenges JD Vance’s Edge in GOP 2028 Race

Rubio’s grassroots surge in Iowa shows that Vice President JD Vance’s presumed hold on the nomination is far from secure.

President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visit a temporary migrant detention center informally known as "Alligator Alcatraz" in Ochopee, Florida, on July 1, 2025.
Vice President JD Vance speaks at Metallus, a metal products manufacturer, on July 28, 2025, in Canton, Ohio.
President Donald Trump talks to reporters as he departs the White House on July 25, 2025, in Washington, DC.

Overview

  • Vice President JD Vance is widely viewed as President Donald Trump’s political heir and retains strong establishment support in the 2028 GOP contest.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio has gained significant grassroots backing in Iowa by leveraging his 2016 campaign network to rival Vance.
  • Iowa activists frequently cite Rubio’s name recognition and past ground game as reasons for his growing momentum among early-voting Republicans.
  • A broad field of Republican senators, governors and Cabinet officials is now positioning itself in key primary states ahead of the formal nominating process.
  • Democrats have quietly begun organizing early-state strategies to prepare for the general election and counter the eventual Republican nominee.