With former president and now President-elect Donald Trump unable to run again for the White House in 2028, Vice President-elect JD Vance appears to be the heir apparent to the America First movement and the Republican Party's powerful MAGA base.
The 40-year-old Vance is expected to be the front-runner in the next GOP presidential nomination race, with strong support from Trump and the party firmly in the president-elect's grip.
RNC chair Michael Whatley stated that the party will maintain neutrality in an open and contested presidential primary, despite Vance's perceived advantage.
Donald Trump Jr., a key ally of Vance, predicted a continuation of Trump's influence for the next four years followed by eight years of Vance's leadership.
Republican consultants and strategists acknowledge Vance's position as the one to beat, citing the strength of Trump's recent electoral victories and the momentum of the America First movement.
While Vance is seen as the front-runner, it is expected that there will be a competitive primary race with other contenders vying for the nomination.
Whatley expressed excitement about the Republican Party's current leadership bench, highlighting the diverse range of governors, senators, and House members engaged in the party's agenda.
He emphasized that the America First movement transcends Trump and has reshaped the Republican Party into one that appeals to working-class voters and addresses a broad spectrum of issues.
Unlike the Democratic National Committee, the RNC has not made significant changes to its primary lineup for 2028, maintaining the traditional Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary as the initial contests.
Whatley indicated that there have been no discussions about altering the primary calendar for 2028 on the Republican side, contrasting with the Democrats' adjustments in the previous cycle.
Overall, the Republican Party is positioned to build on the momentum of the America First agenda as it looks ahead to the 2028 presidential election.
