There’s a big debate growing about JD Vance and if he is the future of MAGA.
Could Vice President JD Vance become the next standard-bearer of the America First movement after President Donald Trump? Some prominent conservative voices aren’t entirely convinced—and they’re raising red flags on key issues that matter deeply to Republican voters.
Ungar-Sargon Sounds the Alarm: “I’m Not Sure He’s the One”
Batya Ungar-Sargon, a well-known conservative writer and commentator, recently spoke with Fox News Digital, where she expressed doubt about whether Vance will be able to carry the MAGA mantle forward.
“I don’t think it’s JD,” she said plainly. “I know everyone else does. I’m just not sure.”
While Ungar-Sargon was quick to praise Vance’s intellect and political future, she pointed to what she sees as “gaps” in alignment with President Trump—especially on deeply held conservative values.
Policy Gaps Between Trump and Vance? A Conservative Warning
One issue Ungar-Sargon singled out was abortion, a defining topic for many faith-based conservative voters.
She recalled watching Vance speak at a recent event, where he focused heavily on protecting the unborn.
“There’s a huge segment of the right that resonates with that,” she acknowledged. “And I respect that. But I don’t think that’s enough to win nationally.”
Instead, she praised President Trump’s savvy approach to the abortion issue during the 2024 election—saying he succeeded in “neutralizing” abortion as a political weapon used by the left.
According to Ungar-Sargon, Trump’s messaging resonated because it reflected how “most Americans really feel” about such a complex topic—something she believes Vance will need to adapt to if he wants to win over a broader base.
Trump on Vance: “Very Capable… But It’s Too Early”
During a Super Bowl interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier, President Trump was asked point-blank if JD Vance was his clear successor for 2028.
His response? Measured—but telling.
“Not at this point, but he’s a very capable individual,” President Trump stated. “There are many strong contenders out there. Right now, he’s doing an excellent job—but it’s still early in the game.”
That moment didn’t go unnoticed.
“When asked directly if Vance was his heir, Trump didn’t say yes,” Ungar-Sargon noted. “That stands out.”
CPAC Straw Poll: Vance Still the Favorite Among the Base
Despite lingering questions, JD Vance dominated the CPAC straw poll last month, pulling in a commanding 61% support from conservative grassroots attendees.
That performance shows strong momentum—but some are watching for “dark horse” candidates to emerge from within Trump’s own inner circle.
Among those names?
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a 2016 rival turned Trump loyalist
- Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, a bold and unconventional pick
- Other Cabinet members who may quietly be building their own national profiles
The Bigger Picture: A Deep Bench of Conservative Talent
Ungar-Sargon emphasized that the GOP’s future looks strong, thanks to a new generation of leaders rising under President Trump’s influence.
“I think JD is brilliant. I think he has a very bright future,” she said. “I’m just not sure if he’s the one to carry this exact movement forward.”
With the 2028 race still years away, Trump supporters age 50 and up—the backbone of the conservative movement—will play a crucial role in shaping what comes next.
Final Take: MAGA’s Next Chapter Starts Now
As speculation swirls around JD Vance and the future of MAGA, one thing is clear: President Trump has built a movement that’s bigger than any single name.
Whether Vance, Rubio, Gabbard—or another rising star—steps up in 2028, the foundation laid by President Trump will guide conservative policy for decades to come.
Stay tuned, because the America First movement is just getting started.