Rubio's early exit from Trump cabinet sparks 2028 speculation

Following the Republicans' devastating midterm defeat, speculation is growing that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio may leave the Trump administration early to position himself for a 2028 presidential run. Reports from The Independent, citing insiders, say Rubio is preparing to enter the Republican nomination race, with Vice President J.D. Vance seen as his main intra-party rival. Rumors of his departure circulated even before the midterms, where Republicans lost majorities in both chambers. Rubio has remained publicly quiet since the election, potentially to strengthen his position. An early exit would be risky, requiring him to balance loyalty to the Republican base with enough distance from Trump's policies to compete against candidates like Vance in the 2028 primaries.