2028 Presidential Primary Front-Runners Emerge in Polls

Support is shaping up for the upcoming presidential race, with GOP Vice President JD Vance leading among Republican voters and Pete Buttigieg holding a slight edge in the Democratic primary, according to recent surveys.

In a hypothetical Republican contest, Vance secures 46% of support, surpassing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 9%, Senator Marco Rubio at 12%, and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at 5%. Meanwhile, in the Democratic race, Buttigieg leads former Vice President Kamala Harris with 16% versus her 13%. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro are close behind, both at 12% and 7%, respectively.

JD Vance speaking at a podium, pointing to the audience. — Supporters see JD Vance as the GOP front-runner in a potential primary race.

Approximately 23% of Democratic voters remain undecided, indicating ongoing competition. Politically, Vance has strengthened his position as the leading Republican candidate, especially since a November survey showed rising favorability among GOP voters.

Harris’s support has declined from 37% in previous polls. It is unclear whether she plans to run for governor of California in 2026 or aims another presidential bid.

Pete Buttigieg speaking at a VoteVets town hall. — Pete Buttigieg currently holds a narrow lead over Kamala Harris in Democratic primary polling.

Former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg is seen as a strong contender within the Democratic primary. After her defeat last November, Harris indicated she would stay active in politics but has not yet committed to any future runs.

The survey also notes a slight dip in President Trump’s approval ratings, with 46% disapproving and 45% approving of his job performance. Trump has yet to endorse Vance as his successor, though he has praised Marco Rubio and JD Vance in recent interviews.

Bar chart showing June 2025 poll results for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination. — The latest polls show Vance leading the 2028 Republican presidential race, with support from 46% of voters.

Support among voters remains evenly split on the congressional ballot, with 42% backing Republican candidates and 42% supporting Democrats. The survey was conducted June 24-25 among 1,000 registered voters, with a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.