Is the GOP Eyeing a New Face for the White House Already?

A recent poll suggests the son of a previous president may run for GOP nomination in 2028. Registered Republicans and Independents were asked which Republican primary candidate they would support today in a major news organization-commissioned Noble Predictive Insights poll. Party continuity and change are shown by results.

VP J.D. Vance leads with 38% Republican and 41% Independent GOP leaning support. Trump Jr. received 26% Republican and 13% Independent votes. Both guys lead other rivals, indicating an early divergence between the contest’s highest figures.

Trump Jr. is running, but survey respondents think Vance is better. Non-college grads, suburbanites, and 65-year-olds favored Vance. Trump Jr. scored higher among 18-44-year-olds, city dwellers, top incomes, and men.

Between October 2 and 6, 2025, 978 Republicans and 178 Independents were polled. Choose from nine candidates. Vance and Trump Jr. had single-digit support, while DeSantis and Rubio trailed early.

Relevant because this poll reflects Republicans’ early mood and goals. Trump Jr.’s bid improves Trump’s legacy, but Vance’s lead implies GOP modernization. Republican voters may support Trump but want new leadership to develop the party.

After intraparty conflict, ramifications exist. Republican primaries and general election Independent and swing voter support are needed to gain nomination. Independent leader Vance may be more electable. If Trump Jr. doesn’t grow his base, his lower Independent support could hinder him in a general election.

As the oldest son of a previous president, Trump Jr. quickly gains political respect and loyalty. His lack of governing expertise and narrow Republican appeal may hurt his national campaign. Vance, a rising national figure, offers the GOP a classic approach. Diversity in his support boosts his early standing.

Every early polling result is transitory. Voter preferences may change as politicians discuss and reinforce their issues. In coming months, progress will be measured.

Early evidence indicate that J.D. Vance and Donald Trump Jr. could shape the GOP in 2028. Trump’s continuity or Vance’s reinvention are uncertain in the next Republican primary.

Sources
The Center Square Voters’ Voice Poll (Noble Predictive Insights)
ABC6 On Your Side / The Center Square
WEAR TV coverage of the poll