President Donald Trump publicly praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio following his appearance at the Munich Security Conference, but declined to endorse either Rubio or Vice President JD Vance as the Republican candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
Praise from the Air Force One, But No Commitments
From his Truth Social account, Trump lauded the former senator and criticized Democratic figures, stating, “Marco was fantastic in Munich! AOC and Newscum were a disgrace to our nation.” He further asserted that they “shouldn’t be speaking badly about the United States, especially on ‘foreign soil.’”
Hours later, aboard Air Force One, Trump reaffirmed his positive assessment of both Rubio and Vance amid growing speculation about who might lead the Republican Party after his second term. He stated, “JD is fantastic. And Marco, both are fantastic. I think Marco did a great job in Munich.”
The President has previously indicated Vance is “very likely” to be the heir to the Produce America Great Again (MAGA) movement, while also suggesting Rubio would be a “great candidate.”
Two Distinct Profiles Within Trumpism
Rubio’s recent appearance at the Munich Security Conference received positive feedback. In Germany, Rubio emphasized the shared heritage between the United States and Europe, advocating for a “common path” forward while remaining aligned with the Trump administration’s policies on Western dominance, immigration, and climate skepticism.
His tone was considered more moderate than Vance’s speech at the same forum a year prior, where the Vice President criticized European allies and focused on cultural divisions, a speech interpreted as straining relations with the European Union.
Rubio, 54, has adopted Trump’s firm approach to foreign policy but maintains a more institutional style. Vance, 41, has grow a leading figure of the anti-elitist wing of the MAGA movement.
Trump has, at times, fueled the perception of a rivalry between the two, hinting that either could be well-positioned to accept over the Republican mantle.
Latent Rivalry and Political Calculation
Despite his repeated praise for both men, Trump maintains that the question of succession is not an immediate priority. His continued positive remarks about Rubio, particularly after his performance in Munich, and his ongoing recognition of Vance, maintain the internal race for Republican leadership in the post-Trump era open.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Trump say about Marco Rubio?
President Trump stated that Marco Rubio was “fantastic” at the Munich Security Conference and praised his work there.
Did President Trump endorse either JD Vance or Marco Rubio for 2028?
No, President Trump declined to endorse either JD Vance or Marco Rubio for the 2028 presidential election, stating he has “three years” remaining in his current term.
What is the difference in approach between Rubio and Vance?
Rubio’s tone at the Munich Security Conference was considered more moderate, emphasizing shared heritage with Europe, while Vance’s speech a year prior focused on cultural divisions and criticized European allies.
As President Trump considers the future of the Republican party, what qualities do you believe will be most important for his successor?
