The earliest signals of a presidential race normally involve such subtle and behind-the-scenes positioning from candidates that it’s been dubbed in political circles as the “shadow primary.” But the early Republican race to succeed President Donald Trump in just over two years’ time seems to be already playing out in one of the most public forums possible: the White House press briefing room.

Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are rotating at the White House podium, drawing attention as two possible 2028 GOP contenders.

JD Vance brushed off talk of a 2028 ticket with Marco Rubio after Donald Trump calls pairing a “dream team.”