CNN’s chief data analyst, Harry Enten, noted on Thursday that Vice President JD Vance appears to be well-positioned for a shot at the Republican presidential nomination in 2028.
During a recent ceremony at the White House, President Donald Trump remarked that Vance is likely a favored candidate for the MAGA mantle in 2028. Enten mentioned on “CNN News Central” that Trump’s endorsement could significantly enhance Vance’s candidacy prospects.
“Let’s take a closer look. It’s early in the season, but in terms of GOP nominations, JD Vance is at 40%,” Enten said. “No one else is even close. [Florida Governor] Ron DeSantis will probably dip back into single digits come morning. Donald Trump Jr. is at about 7%.”
Analysts acknowledged that, while these early numbers might be premature, they could hold substantial significance.
“Keep in mind, early favorites win 63% of the time based on data from 1980 onward. That makes it look pretty promising for the guy from Ohio,” Enten added.
Host Kate Bolduan probed Vance’s chances for the nomination.
“What about the Vice President? Historically, the last five vice presidents who sought their party’s nomination all won—like Nixon in 1960 and Bush in 1988,” Bolduan pointed out.
“So it’s not only about votes. Based on history, if JD Vance enters this race as vice president, the track record suggests he’s got a solid chance in the general election,” Enten explained.
Bolduan then inquired about Trump’s possible influence on Vance’s nomination chances.
“If Trump chooses to support Vance, this GOP nomination race for 2028 would likely be a wrap,” he remarked. “JD Vance is looking very likely to be the nominee. That’s what the current data indicates, and history supports it.”
Trump also hinted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio might be a suitable running mate for Vance in 2028.
“I think Marco connects well with JD in various ways,” Trump mentioned.
In July, Rubio had expressed that Vance would make a great presidential candidate if he decided to run.
Additionally, Vance’s position as the RNC finance chair has boosted his status within the party, particularly following his recent statements to the media regarding his ambitions.
