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CPAC 2028 Straw Poll: Vance Leads Rubio in GOP Race

The 2026 CPAC straw poll for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination showed Vice President JD Vance leading with 53% and Secretary of State Marco Rubio second with 35%. This result highlights the party's internal debate over its future direction following Donald Trump's absence from the conference for the first time in a decade. Rubio's support has risen significantly, while other candidates like Ted Cruz lagged behind. Attendees expressed varied opinions, with some favoring a Vance-Rubio ticket and others still hoping for Trump's return. The poll, though informal, points to an emerging rivalry between two key Trump allies. Trump's potential endorsement remains a critical factor in the nominating process.

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CPAC 2028 Straw Poll: Vance Leads Rubio in GOP Race

At the 2026 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), a straw poll for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination indicated Vice President JD Vance as the frontrunner with 53% support, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio with 35%, as the party navigates its post-Trump future.

Straw Poll Results

  • The informal survey of approximately 1,600 attendees showed Vance with 53%, down from 61% in 2025.
  • Rubio surged to 35% from minimal support last year.
  • Other potential candidates received low percentages: Senator Ted Cruz at 1%, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at 0%.

Trump's Absence and Impact

  • For the first time in a decade, former President Donald Trump did not attend CPAC, shifting focus to his potential heirs.
  • Trump has publicly avoided endorsing a successor but has praised both Vance and Rubio.
  • His endorsement is considered crucial should he decide to influence the nomination.
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Vance and Rubio: Roles and Support

  • Vance, known for his background in "Hillbilly Elegy," operates more behind the scenes, while Rubio leads on foreign policy issues.
  • Some conservatives, like attendee Jessica Luebbers, have grown more supportive of Rubio due to his performance as Secretary of State.
  • Others, such as student Luke Rosati, prefer Rubio despite disagreements on policies like the Iran conflict.

Other Contenders and Speeches

  • Senator Ted Cruz, who spoke at CPAC, received only 1% in the poll despite advocating for a blend of Trump populism and traditional GOP principles.
  • Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also spoke but garnered no support for a potential bid.
  • Few rumored 2028 candidates, including Rand Paul and Ron DeSantis, addressed the conference.

Future Prospects and Attendee Sentiment

  • Many attendees expressed a desire for new leadership, with some speculating about a Vance-Rubio ticket.
  • Holdouts like Frank Robles still advocate for Trump to run again, despite constitutional limits.
  • The poll, while not scientifically representative, underscores the consolidation around Vance and Rubio in the GOP's 2028 discussions.
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