GOP Donors Discuss 'Draft Rubio' 2028 Effort as Secretary of State's Star Rises

Rubio's growing profile amid Iran war sparks speculation about potential 2028 presidential bid

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:32pm

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A group of Republican donors has quietly begun discussing ways to boost Secretary of State Marco Rubio's political future ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run, as Rubio's profile has risen within the Trump administration, particularly around the ongoing war with Iran. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance remains well-positioned for a 2028 campaign, but questions are emerging over his inevitability as Rubio's star has risen.

Why it matters

Rubio's growing prominence within the Trump administration and the potential 'draft Rubio' effort by GOP donors could pose a challenge to Vice President Vance's path to the 2028 Republican nomination. This internal Republican jockeying for position reflects the party's shifting dynamics and the potential for a competitive 2028 primary.

The details

Rubio has taken on numerous senior roles within the Trump administration, including acting national security adviser and acting director of the U.S. Agency for International Development. His elevated profile has been particularly pronounced around the administration's recent strikes on Iran, with Rubio remaining by President Trump's side at Mar-a-Lago during the early days of the conflict. Meanwhile, Vance has maintained a relatively lower profile following the start of the Iran war, though he is now ramping up his official and political events.

  • In late February, President Trump discussed the 2028 Republican nomination with a group of donors at his Mar-a-Lago resort, asking 'Marco or JD?'
  • Rubio was already on his way to a makeshift situation room in Mar-a-Lago when President Trump gave the green light to launch the strikes on Iran.

The players

Marco Rubio

The current Secretary of State, who has taken on a growing number of senior roles within the Trump administration and has seen his profile rise, particularly around the ongoing war with Iran.

JD Vance

The current Vice President, who remains well-positioned for a 2028 presidential campaign but has faced some internal Republican questions over his inevitability as Rubio's star has risen.

Donald Trump

The current President, who has heaped lavish praise on Rubio and has privately discussed the 2028 Republican nomination with donors, asking 'Marco or JD?'

Laura Loomer

An influential far-right activist who has emerged as one of Vance's staunchest critics from within the MAGA base, routinely targeting the Vice President over his connections to figures like Tucker Carlson.

Tucker Carlson

A popular commentator who has emerged as a critic of the administration's strikes on Iran, leading to concerns from some close Trump advisers about Vance's ties to Carlson.

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What they’re saying

“The President has assembled an all-star team that has achieved unprecedented success in just over one year. No amount of crazed media speculation about Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio will deter this Administration's mission of fighting for the American people.”

— Steven Cheung, White House communications director

“If JD Vance runs for president, he's going to be our nominee, and I'll be one of the first people to support him.”

— Marco Rubio

“RUBIO RISING 🇺🇸 Get ready for 2028!”

— Laura Loomer, Influential far-right activist

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.