Trump Stirs Succession Talk, Says Vance-Rubio Ticket Would Be 'Unbeatable' in 2028

WASHINGTON (CNA) — U.S. President Donald Trump said on the New York Post's podcast 'Pod Force One' that a 2028 ticket with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be 'unbeatable.'

According to Reuters, both Vance and Rubio are seen as top contenders for the 2028 Republican nomination. Although both have downplayed their ambitions for the next election, Trump continues to stoke succession talk.

In the episode aired today, Trump told New York Post columnist Miranda Devine, 'I think JD (Vance) and Marco (Rubio) together would be very tough to beat.'

The Associated Press reported Trump also said, 'I like them both, and I like them together,' adding that a joint ticket would require mutual agreement, but 'they get along very well.'

However, Trump did not indicate who should be the presidential candidate.

Rubio gained attention last month at a White House press conference for his relaxed, humorous, and confident handling of questions on Iran, Cuba, and China.

Vance, 41, and Rubio, 55, have not formally announced their candidacies. Rubio has publicly called Vance a friend and insisted he would not run in 2028 if Vance does.

Recent polls show the two have similar levels of support among Republican voters.