Against the backdrop of the upcoming presidential elections in the United States, Trump is choosing which of his two closest associates to support as his successor: Vice President Vance or Secretary of State Rubio, reports The Wall Street Journal.
Sources indicate that in recent months, Trump has regularly sought the opinions of his advisors, friends, and sponsors regarding the strengths and weaknesses of Vance and Rubio. When Trump was re-elected for a second term in November 2024 (he took office in January 2025), observers noted that his team was divided between supporters of two opposing approaches to foreign policy.
On one side are the isolationists, advocating for a reduction in U.S. foreign policy activity and minimizing interference in the affairs of other countries, including in the Middle East. JD Vance has become the main representative of this group. On the other side are the "hawks," who support an active foreign policy and a desire to control international processes, including the use of force. Marco Rubio represents this group in Trump's administration.
During his second term, Trump adopted a more aggressive approach to international politics, entering into conflicts with the European Union over Greenland and attempting to overthrow Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He also attacked Iran twice, in June 2025 and February 2026. Meanwhile, Rubio, as head of the foreign ministry, has become a more prominent figure compared to Vance, who focused on domestic affairs.
Trump noted that he and Vance had some "philosophical disagreements" regarding the war with Iran, pointing out that Vance was "somewhat less enthusiastic" about the idea of military action, although he generally supported it. According to ABC News, despite publicly supporting the attack, Vance privately expressed strong opposition, arguing that the U.S. should focus on domestic issues rather than starting new wars.
Meanwhile, according to insiders, Trump and Rubio are working on a plan to overthrow the Cuban communist regime, which has long been Rubio's goal as the son of Cuban immigrants.
At the moment, Vance is considered the "default" heir to Trump, as polls show his greater popularity among conservative voters in the U.S. Rubio, in both public and private conversations, assures that he does not intend to challenge Vance. Rumor has it that friendly relations are maintained between the two politicians.
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