Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images News / Getty Images
Vice President JD Vance emerged as the favorite for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, according to the annual straw poll conducted at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland. The poll, which surveyed over 1,000 attendees, revealed that 61% of participants supported Vance as their top choice for the nomination. This result places him well ahead of other contenders, including former Trump aide Steve Bannon, who received 12% of the vote, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who garnered 7% support.
The straw poll is a significant indicator of conservative sentiment and is closely watched by politicians, fundraisers, and the media. According to Fox News, Jim McLaughlin, president of McLaughlin & Associates Polls, highlighted Vance's appeal by stating that he is seen as the closest figure to President Donald Trump.
Vance's recent speech at CPAC, where he defended his controversial remarks at the Munich Security Conference, received a standing ovation.
In addition to the Vice President's strong showing, the poll also reflected President Trump's continued influence within the conservative movement, with a 99% approval rating among CPAC attendees.