Vance Dominates CPAC Straw Poll as Rubio Surges

Grapevine, Texas – Over the weekend, thousands of dedicated conservatives gathered at CPAC 2026, the premier event for the America First movement, to reaffirm our commitment to restoring and protecting the values that make this nation the greatest hope for freedom-loving people worldwide. In a resounding vote of confidence, Vice President JD Vance emerged as the clear frontrunner in the annual straw poll for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, capturing 53% of the more than 1,600 attendees surveyed.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio followed strongly in second place with 35%, a dramatic leap from his mere 3% showing in last year’s poll. The results underscore the depth of talent and unity within the conservative ranks as we look beyond the transformative Trump era toward continued leadership rooted in constitutional principles, strong national defense, and unapologetic patriotism.

No other potential contender – including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Sen. Ted Cruz, or others – broke the 2% threshold, highlighting a consolidating field around two proven fighters who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with President Trump in advancing pro-life, pro-family, and pro-America policies.

CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp captured the spirit perfectly: “For anybody who wants to succeed President Trump, they’re going to have to work for it, and they’re going to have to earn it.” That’s the outsider spirit that propelled President Trump to victory, and it remains the standard for every true conservative leader.

Rubio himself showed class and loyalty, stating that if Vance runs, “he’s going to be our nominee, and I’ll be one of the first people to support him.” He described Vance as his “closest friend in the administration,” a reminder that personal friendship and shared mission can strengthen the movement rather than divide it.

Vance’s slight dip from 61% last year reflects no rejection, but rather the healthy competition that comes when strong leaders like Rubio deliver results – particularly in foreign policy triumphs involving Venezuela and Iran that protect American interests abroad while keeping our troops out of endless wars.

For faith-based families, constitutionalists, and everyday patriots across Nevada and the heartland, these results are encouraging. They signal a Republican Party firmly anchored in traditional values, border security, economic strength, and the defense of innocent life. America remains the shining city on a hill, and leaders like Vance and Rubio understand that our best days are still ahead when we reject the radical left’s agenda and fight for the soul of this exceptional nation.

The road to 2028 is long, but CPAC’s grassroots voice sends a powerful message: Conservatives are energized, united in principle, and ready to keep winning for faith, family, and freedom.

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