Politico: The White House Is Increasingly Considering Rubio As Trump's Successor
- 25.04.2026, 10:19
Maduro's overthrow strengthened the position of the US Secretary of State.
Some of President Donald Trump's closest associates increasingly see U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a serious contender in the 2028 election. As Politico writes, his work to topple Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela and his unwavering loyalty to Trump have bolstered his standing in the White House - and among some MAGA voters. At the same time, Rubio has previously said he would not challenge U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, and it is unclear whether he could win a majority of Trump supporters if he does run.
According to a CPAC poll last month, Rubio's approval rating rose sharply to 35 percent, up from 3 percent last year. Vance's rating, meanwhile, is down from last year's 61 percent, though he still holds a solid lead with 53 percent. YouGov polls show a similar trend: in April, Vance led the list of potential Republican candidates with 63 percent and Rubio with 42 percent, down from a September poll showing 65 percent for Vance and 33 percent for Rubio.
"Rubio has not displaced Vance from Trump's list of candidates, but according to two senior White House officials and five other people close to the administration, the White House is discussing the possibility of the secretary of state becoming a viable option to succeed Trump," the publication notes.
There is an increasing number of Rubio fans at the highest levels of the Trump administration. Most describe Rubio as a seasoned politician whose dual roles as secretary of state and head of the National Security Council naturally put him at the center of major decisions.
Part of Rubio's growing popularity is also due to his key role in the administration's tough new policy toward the Western Hemisphere. He has been heavily involved in strikes against suspected drug cartels and operations in Venezuela and Cuba.
Another argument in Rubio's favor: avoiding scandals and viral moments that overshadow or embarrass the boss. He's also never been accused of conflict with Trump.
"He's a very good combination of normalcy, common sense and a little bit of a Trump/MAGA touch," notes a Republican Party official close to the White House.
Although Rubio has made significant gains, Vance remains a top contender. He leads in the polls, takes politics seriously and has many allies inside and outside the administration, including Donald Trump Jr. and billionaire Ilon Musk.
Insiders also recognize that Rubio will need to decide whether he wants the presidency at all. "People certainly like him, but ultimately Marco has to decide if he wants it," said a person who personally knows Rubio.