Less than six months into President Trump’s second term, a number of prominent Republicans are already maneuvering for a shot at the 2028 GOP presidential nomination—laying the groundwork in key early states, courting donors, and sharpening their national profiles.

Why it matters: Trump, now in his final term, is ineligible to run again. That’s opening the door for ambitious conservatives who see a rare opportunity to define the future of the party post-Trump.

“Everyone knows Trump’s only got one term left, and I’d say this race is wide open,” said Henry Barbour, a former Republican National Committee member. “These things kick off earlier and earlier.”

The current landscape: Trump has floated Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential successors—both considered early frontrunners. Vance, in particular, is leveraging his position as RNC finance chair to connect with key donors across the country.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has also raised eyebrows, making headlines with high-profile visits during ICE operations. Though no one has officially declared, several GOP figures are clearly positioning themselves for a run:

  • Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin will travel to Iowa this month and headline a South Carolina GOP fundraiser next month—two essential early primary states. Over the past year, he’s appeared at Republican events nationwide.
  • Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has positioned himself as a fiscal hawk, opposing Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. He’s recently visited Iowa and South Carolina and is planning a trip to New Hampshire this fall.
  • Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) remains a strong contender after his 2016 runner-up finish. He’s maintained visibility through his podcast and radio show, and is planning a donor retreat backed by his powerful small-donor base.
  • Gov. Brian Kemp (R-Ga.), chair of the Republican Governors Association, has been engaging with top donors across the country. Though he clashed with Trump over the 2020 election, their relationship has since cooled and turned cordial.
  • Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-Ark.) is making waves by focusing on emerging issues like artificial intelligence. A former Trump press secretary, she’s hitting the donor circuit and heading to Iowa for an event hosted by evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats.
  • Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), who ran in 2024, is staying active via his role as NRSC chair, keeping up donor engagement and travel.

Looking ahead: Republicans say the 2028 race is already underway behind the scenes. Potential candidates are preparing to campaign for midterm candidates in 2026—an early way to build loyalty, earn political favors, and test national appeal.

“Making friends with activists and donors takes time,” said GOP strategist Rob Godfrey. “It’s never too early to start.”

The bigger picture: For some, jumping into the 2028 conversation isn’t just about running for president—it’s also a way to be considered for vice president or a Cabinet spot in 2029.

But there’s a risk: Some strategists caution that appearing too focused on personal ambition could backfire. Many Republican voters remain deeply loyal to Trump and expect party leaders to prioritize his agenda.

“Trump’s going to have a huge influence over who carries the torch next,” warned longtime GOP consultant Dave Carney. “And if he thinks you’re putting yourself ahead of him—watch out.”