The political landscape for the Republican Party is shifting as former President Donald Trump prepares to exit the stage after his term ends. In the latest indication of this change, Vice President J.D. Vance has emerged as a leading contender for the 2028 presidential nomination, achieving a remarkable victory in the straw poll conducted at the Turning Point USA AmericaFest 2025. Vance’s performance in this poll has surpassed Trump’s earlier results in the 2024 primaries, highlighting his strong support among conservative grassroots.
According to Blake Neff from Turning Point USA, “J.D. Vance won the 2028 nomination straw poll by more than Donald Trump won the 2024 one we did two years ago.” This assertion is particularly significant, considering Trump’s commanding performance during the 2024 general election, where he secured victories in every swing state. Vance’s lead appears formidable, placing him ahead of potential challengers such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, and Texas Senator Ted Cruz.
In a notable twist, Vance has also pulled ahead of Donald Trump Jr., who many speculate could be a vice presidential candidate should Vance pursue the presidency in 2028. The results of the straw poll, which indicated a strong consensus among attendees, point to a significant shift in the party’s direction.
Key Findings from the Straw Poll
The straw poll provided a wealth of insights into the sentiments of conservative voters. Notably, Trump’s cabinet members remain popular, with many receiving high approval ratings. Figures such as Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of War, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary, both garnered “strongly approve” ratings exceeding 70 percent. The only cabinet member facing considerable disapproval was Attorney General Pam Bondi, with approximately 29 percent of respondents expressing a negative view.
The poll also highlighted pressing issues that resonate with the Republican base. Respondents overwhelmingly identified immigration as a critical concern, advocating for an immigration moratorium. Interestingly, despite a broader conversation about demographic challenges, concerns regarding America’s low birthrate were not seen as significant by the poll’s participants.
A particularly divisive issue among conservatives—support for Israel—was also addressed in the poll. The results revealed that 86.7 percent of participants view Israel as either an ally or America’s top ally, with only 13.3 percent expressing the belief that Israel does not align with U.S. interests. This finding contrasts sharply with the heated discussions often seen on social media, suggesting a broader consensus among grassroots conservatives.
The insights from the straw poll reflect a vibrant and evolving political atmosphere as the Republican Party prepares for the future. With J.D. Vance at the forefront, the dynamics of the 2028 race are shaping up to be both competitive and revealing, as various figures vie for leadership in the post-Trump era.
