Republicans jockey for 2028 primary after midterm rout

Republicans are already positioning for the 2028 presidential primary after Democrats' sweeping midterm victory on Nov. 3, with top contenders blaming the war in Iran, economic issues, and cultural messaging for the party's historic losses. Vice President JD Vance cited the Iran war as the primary cause, while Texas Sen. Ted Cruz pointed to an "economic disconnect" and tariffs. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis highlighted his state as the only GOP stronghold to survive, criticizing Republicans for "fighting yesterday's battles" on transgender issues. Democrats won control of both chambers, flipping reliably red states like Texas, and won the midterm popular vote by 13 points, the largest margin since 1976. The defeat has opened the nomination race, with Vance, Cruz, and DeSantis all considered potential candidates.