Trump reportedly sees JD Vance as his successor
US President Donald Trump has reportedly indicated that Vice President JD Vance is his preferred successor for the 2028 presidential election, according to The Washington Post. Trump reportedly told donors and allies, “In the end, we have to get JD elected.” A close adviser claimed Trump had privately chosen Vance as his political heir, citing his role in Iran diplomacy, a federal fraud task force and international media appearances. However, advisers and analysts cautioned that Trump often changes his views and may avoid formally endorsing a successor before leaving office.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reportedly reduced media appearances to avoid speculation about his political ambitions. Trump reportedly wants Vance and Rubio to run together in 2028, although it remains unclear whether Rubio would accept the vice-presidential nomination. Trump separately dismissed reports of tensions with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth over weapons shortages, calling them “false and baseless” and saying he remained “very happy and satisfied” with Hegseth’s performance.
Trump also reaffirmed that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a key objective, while accusing The Washington Post of spreading misinformation. Separately, Trump signed two executive orders tightening birthright citizenship rules. Rights groups said such citizenship is protected by the 14th Amendment and indicated the measures could face Supreme Court challenges.
