'Does JD Have What It Takes?' Trump Reportedly Unsure Vance Can Carry MAGA Forward
'Does JD Have What It Takes?' Trump Reportedly Unsure Vance Can Carry MAGA Forward Published By, Last Updated: May 31, 2026, 20:43 IST Trump has
'Does JD Have What It Takes?' Trump Reportedly Unsure Vance Can Carry MAGA Forward Published By, Last Updated: May 31, 2026, 20:43 IST Trump has reportedly been conducting informal polls among allies, asking whether they would prefer Vance or Marco Rubio as the future leader of the Republican Party. US Vice President JD Vance listens as US President Donald Trump speaks during a press briefing. (AFP photo) US President Donald Trump has privately questioned whether Vice President JD Vance has what it takes to become the future standard-bearer of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, according to a report by The New York Times. Citing conversations with aides and allies, the report said Trump has repeatedly raised doubts about Vance’s political future, even as he continues to involve him in major decisions and positions him as a leading contender for the Republican nomination in 2028.
The report painted a picture of a complicated relationship, with Trump reportedly praising Vance’s loyalty while also openly criticising and mocking him over policy decisions, personal habits and political performance. Questions Over Succession According to the NYT, Trump has frequently asked those around him a recurring question: “Does JD Vance have what it takes to go all the way?" The report said the president often answers the question himself, admitting he is not entirely convinced. Trump has reportedly been conducting informal polls among allies, asking whether they would prefer Vance or US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as the future leader of the Republican Party. The private comparisons have fuelled speculation over who could eventually inherit Trump’s political movement. The report said Trump has repeatedly argued that Vance would not have won his Ohio Senate race without his endorsement. He has also questioned whether Vance possesses the political strength needed to carry MAGA into the post-Trump era.
Criticism And Mockery According to the report, Trump has repeatedly criticised Vance on several fronts, including his initial opposition to military action against Iran and a diplomatic mission to Pakistan led by the vice president that ultimately failed to achieve its objectives. Trump has also reportedly mocked Vance over more personal matters, including the number of holidays he takes and his tendency to interrupt conversations during meetings. The president is also said to have repeatedly joked about a widely publicised moment when Vance accidentally dropped Ohio State University’s national championship trophy during a White House event, remarking that he was glad it was not him who fumbled it. The report further claimed that Trump has expressed frustration with Vance’s social media habits. While Trump frequently posts on Truth Social, he reportedly views Vance’s online arguments with critics as beneath the office of vice president.
The BriefWire