Kathrine Frich
For now, Trump is keeping his options open.
Political endorsements usually follow a predictable playbook when a vice president is standing by.
But when a leader steps up to a microphone on foreign soil, even a routine question about the future can turn into an awkward moment.
Refusing the pitch
President Donald Trump took questions from reporters on Saturday night outside Shannon International Airport in County Clare, Ireland. He was wrapping up a trip that included attending the Golf Open at his Doonbeg resort.
A journalist on the tarmac asked whether the president was ready to throw his weight behind Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 election. Trump shut down the idea immediately according to Daily Express.
“It’s too early,” Trump replied. “I mean, it’s too early. I think he’s terrific. There’s so many terrific people.”
When asked for more details, he stayed cautious. “I just think they’re all very good, and JD is fantastic and did a very good job,” Trump added.
High stakes looming
The cool response comes at a delicate time for Republicans. Party leaders are bracing for high-stakes midterm elections just two months away, with Democrats hoping to retake control of Congress.
At a recent GOP convention in Dallas, Trump promised voters a $5,000 dividend if Republicans hold onto their majority. The bold proposal drew sharp backlash from political opponents who accused him of trying to buy votes.
Inside the party, the race for 2028 is already quietly taking shape. While no candidate has formally declared, several big names are frequently mentioned in conservative circles.
Wide open race
Key figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and Texas Senator Ted Cruz are widely watched as potential contenders.
NBC News recently reported that close associates of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said “he is considering a run for president in 2028,” though Hegseth denied the claim.
For now, Trump is keeping his options open. By refusing to crown his own vice president early, he leaves the field wide open for whoever wants to claim the nomination next.
Sources: Daily Express, NBC News, press gaggle reports
