Vance or Rubio? CPAC debates a Republican Party after Trump
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Marco Rubio gained significant support as a potential 2028 Republican presidential nominee, with 35% of attendees favoring him, trailing only Vice President JD Vance who received 53%.
- Rubio's rising popularity among conservatives contrasts with Vance's more behind-the-scenes role and mixed support due to his past opposition to foreign conflicts, despite both being close Trump allies.
- Former President Donald Trump did not attend CPAC and has yet to endorse a 2028 candidate, but his eventual endorsement is expected to heavily influence the GOP nomination race.
- Other potential candidates like Ted Cruz and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. received minimal support in the CPAC straw poll, with Cruz at 1% and Kennedy at 0%.
- Some attendees expressed a desire for new leadership beyond Trump and Vance, viewing Rubio as a strong contender, while others remain loyal to Trump and hope for his continued influence or return.
