As Republicans begin looking beyond President Donald Trump’s second term, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is addressing a question that’s already generating buzz: Will he run for president in 2028?
Rubio said he currently has “no plans” to launch a White House bid, but stopped short of ruling it out entirely. The comments are likely to fuel speculation about who could emerge as the Republican Party’s next standard-bearer after Trump leaves office, especially as early polling places Rubio among the GOP’s top potential contenders.
Rubio addresses 2028 speculation
Speaking during an official visit to Colombia, Rubio was asked about a possible presidential campaign and whether he could see himself seeking the White House after Trump’s second term ends.
“I don’t know what the future holds, but I have no plans at this time,” Rubio said. “I’m not a candidate for anything right now. And I’m 100% focused on my job, and I have to be because I have two jobs.”
Rubio added that he remains focused on his current responsibilities, which include serving as Trump’s secretary of state and interim national security adviser.
Who could succeed Trump in 2028?
The 2028 election is still more than two years away, but attention inside Republican circles is already shifting toward a potential post-Trump field.
Vice President JD Vance has emerged as an early favorite in several polls and is widely viewed as one of the party’s leading contenders. Rubio remains among the most frequently mentioned alternatives, while Texas Sen. Ted Cruz recently renewed speculation about another White House bid by declaring it was “no secret” that he wants to be president.
A Harvard CAPS/HarrisX poll released Sept. 2 found Vance leading prospective Republican candidates, with Rubio among the next tier of contenders.
What has Trump said about Rubio?
During a White House event in May, Trump called the two Republicans a potential “perfect ticket” and suggested they could make a strong presidential and vice presidential pairing.
“I do believe that’s a dream team,” Trump said. “That does not mean you have my endorsement under any circumstances.”
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.