Trump midterm setback shakes up race for 2028 US presidential election
Donald Trump's Republican defeat has weakened JD Vance's position, while Democratic figures including Jon Ossoff, Josh Shapiro and Gavin Newsom are gaining attention as potential contenders.
President Donald Trump's Republican Party has suffered a major setback in the US midterm elections, reshaping the early contest to succeed him in the 2028 presidential election.
The Democratic victory has particularly complicated the political future of Vice President JD Vance, who had been widely viewed as the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination.
Vance faces political challenges
The 42-year-old vice president has attempted to distance himself from the Republican defeat, blaming Trump's unpopular war with Iran for the party's losses.
However, his close association with the president during the midterm campaign could make it difficult to establish an independent political identity.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is another potential Republican contender, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Texas Senator Ted Cruz could also emerge as alternatives.
Democrats see an opportunity
The Democratic victories have strengthened the profiles of several potential presidential contenders.
Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, 39, has attracted attention following his re-election victory, although he has said he has no interest in running for president.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and California Governor Gavin Newsom are also among the prominent names being discussed.
Former vice president Kamala Harris, who had been considered a leading contender before the midterms, could face competition from a new generation of Democratic politicians.
A crowded 2028 field
Other potential Democratic contenders include Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.
With the Republican defeat reshaping political calculations in Washington, the midterm results have given both parties fresh reasons to reconsider their potential candidates for 2028.
