“Who do you guys like, J.D. or Marco?”
It’s a question President Trump loves asking at various meetings within close circles at the White House or more informal gatherings with supporters abroad.
Who is the heir apparent to the MAGA movement?
Trump hasn’t given any indication that I’ve seen, at least, of which of the two apprentices he’ll bestow his blessing upon. Part of me thinks that he won’t be the one to make that determination. While he will most likely try to remain involved in the political world after his term is up, it seems he’s content with letting the American people decide who should lead the party.
The easy answer is J.D. Vance. The Vice President is a young man, practically a newcomer to public office, having been first elected to the Senate in 2022.
Vance was a refreshing running mate for Trump on the 2024 campaign trail, especially when compared to the straight-laced Mike Pence. Vance, while speaking in a measured manner during the campaign, showed that he could also speak casually and relatably, something that Pence could never master.
Vance is also a master of media mitigation. Many times throughout the year, the administration will trot him out in front of the Sunday news show cameras to explain and defend policy positions. The “I don’t really care, Margaret” moment comes immediately to mind.
J.D. Vance has proven himself to be a quick study and quite adept at ginning up support with stump speeches throughout the country. He is faithful to President Trump and his agenda, and wise enough to remove himself from the conversation if he doesn’t wholeheartedly agree with a policy position.
In contrast, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been a bulldog in his role in the administration. While Vance delivers biting wit laced with midwestern charm, Rubio has sunk his teeth into championing President Trump’s agenda on the world stage.
Rubio is equally adept as Vance at handling liberal media personalities, and may even have the slight edge. He has been clear and dogged about the goals the Trump administration is achieving in the war with Iran, and even pleaded Trump’s case on the matter to Pope Leo.
Rubio has come a long way from the 2015-26 days of “Lil’ Marco,” who was mocked by Trump for his stature. He is no longer the thirsty Senator who fumbled for a water bottle. He is no longer the robot Chris Christie accused him of being for delivering the same canned lines while out on the debate stage.
Marco Rubio has come into his own as a master of domestic and foreign policy. It’s clear that Trump trusts him implicitly.
I would be happy with either man helming the MAGA ship after Trump gives up the captain’s chair. But given Rubio’s performance lately, it seems he wants the title, prestige, and responsibility more than Vance.
Either one has an uphill battle ahead.
The opinions in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily the opinions of The Howie Carr Radio Network.