New poll complicates Vance's status as Trump's likely 2028 heir apparent

Poll movement
The latest New Hampshire poll showed Vance ahead of Rubio 36% to 26% among likely GOP primary voters, keeping Vance in front but by a smaller margin than some earlier surveys. Other recent national polling has also pointed to Rubio’s improvement, suggesting that the race for the Republican nomination is no longer one-sided.
Why it matters
That shift matters because early polling often shapes donor interest, media coverage, and the willingness of other Republicans to enter or stay out of the race. Rubio’s rise also signals that some GOP voters may be open to an alternative to a Vance-centered succession story.
What comes next
The next phase likely depends on whether party leaders, including Trump, begin to signal support more clearly. Until then, the race is likely to remain driven by polls, endorsements, and informal positioning rather than formal campaign announcements.


