JD Vance, the US vice president and likely 2028 Republican presidential candidate, is facing a coordinated online campaign to undermine his potential White House run, with allies alleging foreign and domestic actors are behind the attacks. Reports suggest pro-Israel groups and GOP establishment figures are funding efforts to label Vance as "unfit," particularly over his stance on Iran diplomacy, while a "Never Vance" movement gains traction on social media.
Foreign and GOP-linked campaigns target Vance
A Washington Post analysis identified a surge of posts criticizing Vance’s willingness to negotiate with Iran, a position that has drawn ire from conservative factions and some in the Israeli government. A Time investigation further revealed that a US firm contracted by Israel’s government paid MAGA-aligned influencers to amplify attacks against the vice president, though the extent of foreign involvement remains disputed.
Donald Trump Jr. framed the backlash as a repeat of the "globalist" and "RINO" (Republican In Name Only) tactics used against his father, former President Donald Trump. "This is the same bullshit," he wrote in response to a clip of political analyst Mark Halperin discussing GOP establishment opposition to Vance. The vice president himself dismissed the criticism in a recent podcast, telling Joe Rogan, "My response to that is, ‘Well, go to hell.’"
Trump’s shifting favor and 2028 GOP landscape
Vance’s standing with Trump appears to have strengthened in recent months, with sources telling MS NOW that the president now views him as "our guy." His weight loss—part of a sauerkraut-heavy diet promoted by physician Sean O’Mara—and a successful book tour have reportedly impressed Trump, who has publicly mused about Vance’s 2028 prospects. In May, Trump asked a White House audience to cheer for either Vance or Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with the crowd favoring the vice president.
A July poll by Daily Mail and JL Partners found Vance leading the GOP primary field with 48% support, far ahead of Rubio’s 18%. Despite their rivalry, Rubio has pledged not to challenge Vance if he runs, calling him his "best friend" in the administration. However, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas remains a potential contender, keeping the 2028 race fluid.
What’s next for Vance and the 2028 race
Vance has repeatedly stated he is focused on current challenges rather than a presidential bid, though his allies are already mobilizing against what they describe as a smear campaign. The vice president’s foreign policy positions—particularly on Iran—will likely remain a flashpoint, with critics accusing him of being too conciliatory and supporters praising his "America First" approach.
Observers will watch for further signs of Trump’s endorsement, as well as any escalation in the online attacks. With the 2028 primary still over a year away, the battle for the GOP nomination is already underway, and Vance’s ability to weather the current storm may determine his viability as a candidate.
