Donald Trump's defeat in the US midterm elections has shifted attention to the race for the White House in 2028, with several political heavyweights from both parties already being discussed as potential successors. The Democrats seized control of both chambers of Congress, a significant setback for the Republican Party.
Among the names being floated are Vice President JD Vance, California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Several candidates have seen their political profiles boosted by the Democrats' sweeping election victories.
Republican Contenders Lead the Polls
JD Vance, the current US Vice President, is among the Republicans being discussed as a potential successor to Donald Trump. Vance had 38.6% support in the RealClearPolling Republican primary polling average cited by Newsweek, putting him ahead of other potential contenders, including Marco Rubio. However, he has yet to confirm whether he will run.
Marco Rubio, Trump's Secretary of State, is another Republican possible contender. Rubio, who unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination in 2016, had 26.4% support in the same polling average. Trump has also publicly fuelled speculation about a potential contest between Rubio and Vance to succeed him.
Other Names in the Mix
Donald Trump Jr, the former president's eldest son, has emerged as another possible Republican candidate. Trump Jr, who has never held elected office, had 9.8% support in the RealClearPolling Republican primary polling average cited by Newsweek. A potential campaign would see him attempt to continue his father's political legacy, although he has not announced plans to run.
Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, is also being discussed as a possible contender, having previously challenged Trump for the party's nomination in 2024. DeSantis, who withdrew from that race and endorsed Trump, had 7.5% support in the polling average cited by Newsweek. He has not ruled out another presidential bid, telling reporters in May: "You never know."
Trump's Third Term Question
Attention also remains on whether Trump himself could stand again. The 79-year-old has repeatedly floated the possibility of a third term, despite the US Constitution preventing anyone from being elected president more than twice. The list of politicians being discussed as possible contenders for the White House in 2028 includes these and other figures from both parties.
