Vance, DeSantis Maneuver for 2028 After GOP Midterm Shellacking
Updated
Updated · CNN · Nov 5
Vance, DeSantis Maneuver for 2028 After GOP Midterm Shellacking
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Nov 5
Summary
JD Vance moved Wednesday to separate himself from Trump after Republicans’ sweeping midterm losses, blaming the Iran war and outlining a possible 2028 message around ending the conflict, affordability and domestic priorities.
Ron DeSantis used the setback to reopen his own White House lane, calling the results an “extinction-level event” for Republicans while arguing Florida “held the line” and sharpening attacks on Trump’s record.
Early-state Republicans and party figures said the defeats could blow open the nomination fight, with Newt Gingrich saying the race is “wide open” and Iowa’s Bob Vander Plaats predicting a crowded field by next year.
Vance still starts as the front-runner because of his vice presidency, donor ties and Turning Point backing, but Trump has not endorsed him, allies say the midterms could affect his decision, and even Trump said, “Maybe he won’t run.”