Conservative heavyweight Tucker Carlson has made it clear—J.D. Vance is the only true successor to Donald Trump in 2028. Speaking on the VINCE podcast with Vince Coglianese, Carlson gave an emphatic endorsement, leaving no doubt about his pick to lead the GOP after Trump’s second term. His bold statement fuels growing speculation about the party’s future in a post-Trump era.
Carlson’s Unwavering Confidence in Vance
Carlson described Vice President Vance as a “powerful partner” to Trump, not just a loyal ally, but someone capable of carrying the MAGA agenda forward. “I do not see any other—at this point, as of today—conceivable option. I believe JD Vance will be the nominee,” Carlson stated, making it clear he sees no competition for the VP in 2028.
Over the next four years, Vance will have the most to lose out of ANYONE in politics; there is no clear champion on the left for 2028 and he has built a very powerful following.
He has a strong shot at 2028 but only if the next four years go well. pic.twitter.com/NB1XFkX9Wk
— Old Hollow Tree (@OldHollowTree) March 11, 2025
His endorsement signals a potential shift in the Republican landscape, with Vance emerging as the frontrunner to continue Trump’s America First policies. However, President Trump himself has yet to weigh in definitively, stating that there are “many capable” Republican contenders.
Vance’s Remarkable Political Transformation
J.D. Vance’s journey from Trump critic to Vice President has been nothing short of extraordinary. Once a vocal skeptic who infamously referred to Trump as “America’s Hitler,” Vance has undergone a complete transformation. His 2016 book Hillbilly Elegy provided insight into Trump’s appeal to working-class voters, but at the time, Vance was not among his supporters.
Fast-forward to 2024, and Vance not only embraced Trump’s movement but secured the vice presidency, becoming one of the fastest-rising stars in modern American politics. His ability to evolve politically while maintaining credibility with conservatives demonstrates the kind of adaptability that Carlson believes makes him the GOP’s best hope for 2028.
Carlson’s Personal Connection and Trump’s Silence
One potential influence on Carlson’s endorsement? His son, Buckley Carlson, serves as Vance’s press secretary, giving the conservative commentator a direct line to the VP’s office. While this connection doesn’t diminish Vance’s political potential, it raises questions about Carlson’s objectivity in making such a strong prediction.
Despite Carlson’s unwavering support, Trump has not officially endorsed Vance as his 2028 successor. Some Trump loyalists, including former strategist Steve Bannon, have even floated the idea of Trump running again—despite constitutional hurdles.
Vance’s rise has positioned him as a formidable force in Republican politics, regardless of Trump’s ultimate decision. At just 40 years old, he represents the next generation of conservative leadership, one that will be tested over the next four years as he serves as Trump’s right-hand man in the White House.