A University of New Hampshire poll suggests Marco Rubio is gaining ground on JD Vance in a hypothetical 2028 Republican presidential primary, narrowing Vance’s previously commanding lead. Vance remains the frontrunner, but the result complicates expectations that he is the uncontested successor to President Trump and highlights Rubio’s growing political profile.

Among likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire, Vance received 36% support and Rubio 26%, compared with 53% and 7% respectively in February. Rand Paul and Nikki Haley were both on 8%, Ron DeSantis had 6%, and all other potential candidates were at 4% or below; the contest is not expected to begin in earnest until after the 2026 midterm elections.