JD Vance says there is a chance he will not run for president in 2028

Vice President JD Vance told a CBS News town hall in Flat Rock, Michigan on Oct. 18, 2026 that there is a chance he will not enter the 2028 Republican presidential race.

His remarks come as Vance leads early polls of potential candidates, with a RealClear average showing him roughly 15 points ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio and well ahead of other rivals.

Vance said, "Of course there’s a chance," adding that his family – "four little kids" and a wife who "has never loved politics, she loves public service" – would factor heavily into any decision.

He described himself as a "procrastinator" when it comes to major life choices, noting that he "hate[s] thinking about it" and that he plans to give the question more serious consideration after the November 2026 midterm elections.

The town hall, broadcast by CBS, also featured questions on gas prices, immigration, corruption accusations involving former ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle, and U.S. actions against Iran. Vance responded by blaming the Biden administration for higher fuel costs, rejecting claims of corruption in the White House, and defending his immigration rhetoric as aimed at corporate practices rather than immigrants.

Trump has not formally named a successor, but has repeatedly praised Vance as a likely nominee. The uncertainty surrounding Vance’s intentions adds a new variable to a GOP primary that already includes figures such as Marco Rubio, Donald Trump Jr., and other cabinet members.

Vance said he will continue focusing on his vice‑presidential duties and the upcoming midterms, leaving the ultimate decision on a 2028 bid open for now.