President Donald Trump publicly polled attendees at a White House event on Monday, asking which candidate they preferred for the 2028 Republican presidential ticket: Vice President J.D. Vance or Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The informal survey occurred during a dinner for law enforcement leaders in the Rose Garden, where Trump asked attendees to cheer for their preferred candidate. He later described the pairing as a 'dream team' but clarified it did not constitute an endorsement.
Rubio has recently gained prominence, filling in for White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during her maternity leave and meeting with Pope Leo XIV in Rome. His performance in these roles has drawn praise from conservatives, with some calling for him to run in 2028. However, Vance currently leads Rubio by 30 points in polling averages, according to RealClearPolitics. Vance has also been actively campaigning, recently appearing at an Iowa rally for Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA).
Rubio has embraced his viral internet persona, with memes depicting him in various humorous roles. His lighthearted approach has contrasted with his serious diplomatic and national security responsibilities, including his role as acting national archivist and head of USAID. Trump has previously floated the idea of a Vance-Rubio ticket, though no formal decisions have been made.