Tucker Carlson Predicts J.D. Vance as GOP’s 2028 Presidential Nominee

Conservative political commentator Tucker Carlson has weighed in on the future of the Republican Party, making a bold prediction that Senator J.D. Vance will carry the mantle of “Trumpism” into the 2028 presidential race.

During an interview with Silverloch’s Vince Coglianese, Carlson was asked who he believed would best represent the America First movement once President Donald Trump leaves office in January 2029. His response was clear: J.D. Vance is the only Republican capable of fully carrying on Trump’s legacy.

Carlson on Trump’s Legacy

Carlson began by acknowledging Trump’s transformative impact on the country, calling him “the most important president in our lifetime,” comparable to Franklin D. Roosevelt in terms of influence.

“I think people want to leave a legacy, all of us, and great men especially do. And the only person in the entire Republican Party, from my position, who’s capable of carrying on the Trump legacy and expanding it—making it what it should fully be—is J.D. Vance. I think his loyalty is without question, and his service to Trump has been profound.”

Carlson argued that the Republican Party must remain focused on America First policies, rather than catering to globalist interests. He contrasted leaders like J.D. Vance, who are committed to putting Americans first, with establishment figures like Nikki Haley, whom he accused of prioritizing foreign interests.

“The real battle here is between the people who care about the country primarily, and people like Nikki Haley who don’t care at all about the country… They really care about the fortunes of foreign countries, and that’s how they’re paid.”

Why J.D. Vance?

Carlson pointed to Vance’s close alliance with Trump, his ability to expand and refine the America First movement, and his firm stance on economic nationalism and border security as key factors in his rising status.

“Already, J.D. Vance has been a powerful partner, a subordinate partner, yes—not co-equal, he’s the vice president—but he has been a powerful partner for Trump. I don’t see any other conceivable option. I think J.D. Vance will be the nominee.”

A Natural Successor

As Trump’s Vice President, J.D. Vance would be the most natural choice to inherit the GOP nomination in 2028. If Trump serves his full second term, Vance would have four years as VP to build credibility, solidify his support within the party, and emerge as the frontrunner.

However, if Trump were to leave office early, Vance would assume the presidency before 2028, making him the incumbent president heading into the election. Historically, incumbent presidents rarely face strong primary challenges, meaning Vance would have a clear path to the GOP nomination.

Who Else Could Run?

While Vance is currently the leading contender, Carlson acknowledged that other names are being floated for a 2028 run, including:

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio
• Florida Governor Ron DeSantis
• Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin
• Tucker Carlson himself (a suggestion that has circulated among his supporters)

Although these figures remain prominent within the Republican Party, none currently match Vance’s proximity to Trump, which could make all the difference when Trump inevitably endorses a successor.

Carlson’s Broader Vision: A Shift in Leadership Priorities

Carlson also emphasized the need for leaders who prioritize their own nations, rather than catering to global elites. He pointed to world leaders such as Xi Jinping in China and Vladimir Putin in Russia, arguing that while Americans may not agree with them, they are at least committed to their respective countries’ interests—unlike many U.S. politicians.

“Whatever you say about Xi Jinping or Putin, they put their countries first. Our leaders have not been that way, and I think going forward, they probably will be, because there’s no other way to run a country.”

The Road to 2028

With Trump still in office, the 2028 election remains far in the future, and political landscapes can shift quickly. However, with Tucker Carlson’s prediction and Trump’s close alliance with J.D. Vance, it appears that the GOP’s next standard-bearer is already emerging.

Will Vance follow through and become the next leader of the Republican Party? Only time will tell.