But he just reportedly told donors privately to back Vance: ‘At the end of the day, we need to elect JD’President Trump has privately signaled a clear preference for his successor in the 2028 election, telling donors he wants Vice President JD Vance to lead the Republican ticket. According to a Washington Post report, he told donors, “At the end of the day, we need to elect JD.” He often emphasizes how much he enjoys his current role as vice president and frequently offers praise for Rubio. Exclusive: President Trump recently told donors in private that he wants to see his vice president win the 2028 presidential election — a sign that he is open to publicly backing JD Vance. But you know … I think it sounds like presidential candidate and vice presidential candidate.”