# Republicans Eye Florida Figures for 2028 Presidential Bid Florida GOP leaders face internal pressure to challenge for the 2028 nomination. - **Source:** [Axios](https://www.axios.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1df5d188-5219-4e33-a92d-9f9ed0dda78e ## Shifting GOP Primary Dynamics The Republican party is experiencing sudden volatility regarding the 2028 presidential primary. Following recent midterm election losses, the path for Vice President Vance is no longer viewed as a guaranteed coronation. Party insiders are now actively exploring alternative candidates, shifting the focus toward prominent figures within the Florida Republican establishment. ## DeSantis Positions for Run Governor Ron DeSantis is actively positioning himself for a potential presidential bid as his gubernatorial term ends in January. He has initiated a strategic media blitz, including appearances on podcasts and television networks like CNN. DeSantis emphasizes that the party needs a wakeup call after recent electoral setbacks across the country. ## Rubio Faces Internal Pressure Secretary of State Marco Rubio is facing significant pressure from supporters to reconsider a presidential run. Despite his public denials and stated commitment to his current role until January 2029, sources indicate his phone was flooded with requests on election night. Some supporters believe he could help recover lost Latino votes. ## Florida as Political Fortress Florida has emerged as a critical center for GOP strategy because it remained a red-wall state during the recent blue wave. National consultants note that the state's unique political profile, characterized by the influence of DeSantis and Rubio, makes it a focal point for those seeking to reshape the party's future. ## Contrasting Political Ambitions The political styles and ambitions of DeSantis and Rubio remain distinct. DeSantis is actively seeking a path forward and has not ruled out a campaign, while Rubio has repeatedly stated he intends to serve out his term. Associates of Rubio have dismissed reports suggesting he is actively preparing to resign for a run. ## Donor and Supporter Influence The internal party debate is fueled by feedback from donors and political supporters. Some GOP donors have explicitly expressed their willingness to back DeSantis, while others have advised Vice President Vance against running. This shifting landscape suggests that the party's donor class is actively weighing options for the next election cycle. ## Lessons from Past Campaigns DeSantis appears to be applying lessons from his 2024 presidential campaign by prioritizing free media exposure. By engaging in more podcast and television interviews, he aims to maintain visibility without making an official declaration. He views the current political environment as highly uncertain, necessitating a cautious but highly visible strategic approach. ## Future Party Trajectory The potential for a contested primary highlights the party's struggle to define its direction after recent electoral defeats. Whether DeSantis or Rubio ultimately challenges for the nomination remains speculative, but the focus on Florida underscores the state's outsized influence. The party's next steps will depend on resolving these internal leadership tensions. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.axios.com/2026/11/08/florida-desantis-rubio-2028 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._