Republican contenders for the 2028 US presidential race

Preparation for the 2028 U.S. presidential election will begin within months, and Republican Vice President JD Vance's position as the leading candidate is now uncertain following the party's midterm defeat. Several other Republicans are emerging as potential contenders. Vance has publicly criticized the Iran war, which analysts interpret as an indirect rebuke of President Donald Trump, who has refused to endorse him for 2028. Donors are reportedly abandoning Vance, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are being discussed as stronger alternatives. Senators Ted Cruz, Tom Cotton, and Josh Hawley also hold presidential ambitions, though Hawley has denied interest. DeSantis, whose term ends in January 2027, is seen as a rare Republican winner after Florida remained red while other states shifted blue.