At least seven Republicans are already seen as plausible 2028 presidential contenders, with Vice President J.D. Vance viewed as the early front-runner but not an inevitable nominee.
Ron DeSantis, Brian Kemp, Glenn Youngkin and Mike Pompeo are widely expected to run, while senators such as Ted Cruz and David McCormick are also cited as possible entrants.
The report argues Vance would still have to fight through Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina because sitting vice presidents typically face contested primaries rather than inheriting nominations.
Donald Trump is expected to remain the party's dominant force and may endorse Vance, Rubio or another candidate, but visible GOP maneuvering is expected to begin before the end of 2026.
A crowded race would test whether Republicans in the post-Trump era want a candidate who fully extends MAGA politics or one who shifts toward a more traditional conservative middle.