RismadarVoice Reporters
October 2, 2026
US Vice President JD Vance has said the outcome of the November midterm elections could provide important information as he considers whether to seek the presidency in 2028.
Vance made the remarks after campaigning in Florida for Republican candidates, including Senator Ashley Moody and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds, ahead of the November 3 elections.
The vice president acknowledged that the party controlling the White House traditionally faces challenges during midterm elections, describing the contest facing Republicans as an “uphill climb.”
He nevertheless said Republicans would continue working to improve their position ahead of Election Day.
Asked whether a poor Republican performance could influence his decision on a possible 2028 presidential campaign, Vance said election results would form part of the information he considers before making a decision.
“You make these decisions by collecting as much information and trying to make a wise decision,” he said.
Vance has not formally announced a 2028 presidential campaign and has repeatedly maintained that his immediate focus is on his duties as vice president and helping Republican candidates in the midterms.
He previously indicated that he expected to consider his political future after the 2026 midterm elections.
Vance also addressed speculation surrounding Texas Senator Ted Cruz and the possibility of a contested Republican presidential primary in 2028.
He said Cruz appeared to be positioning himself for a presidential campaign but maintained that he was not currently doing the same.
“It is really obvious to me that, at this very moment, Ted Cruz is running for president,” Vance said. “At this moment, I’m not. I’m trying to help elect Republicans.”
The vice president also discussed issues expected to influence voters in the midterms, including fuel prices, artificial intelligence and the rapid expansion of data centres.
On data centres, Vance said communities should benefit from investment without being forced to absorb higher electricity costs associated with increased power demand.
He also raised concerns about the development of increasingly powerful artificial intelligence systems, arguing that technology companies should bear responsibility for risks associated with their products.
Vance said he was concerned that poorly designed regulation could shield AI companies from liability rather than increase their accountability.
With the November 3 elections approaching, Vance said his immediate political attention remained on campaigning for Republican candidates.
The results, he acknowledged, could become one of several factors he considers when deciding whether to pursue the Republican presidential nomination in 2028.
