Marco Rubio Faces Speculation Over Possible Resignation to Prepare for 2028 Presidential Bid

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is facing growing speculation that he could resign from President Donald Trump’s administration to position himself for a potential run for the White House in 2028, according to a report published on Thursday.

The Independent, citing unnamed senior Republican sources in Washington and figures within the UK government, reported that Rubio is under “resignation watch” following the Republican Party’s significant defeats in the US midterm elections, which resulted in Democrats gaining control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Rubio, who also serves as White House national security adviser, is considered by some Republican figures to be a potential frontrunner for the party’s 2028 presidential nomination. Sources suggested that he may need to distance himself from the Trump administration, particularly its handling of the war in Iran, to strengthen his political prospects and compete with Vice President JD Vance.

One of Rubio’s allies reportedly argued that his departure would “make complete sense,” saying he would find it difficult to effectively campaign for the presidency while serving as secretary of state. Reports have also suggested that as many as four or five senior administration officials could consider leaving their positions.

Rubio has previously played down speculation about his presidential ambitions. In September, he said he had “no plans at this time” to seek the presidency, stressing that his focus remained on his responsibilities in the Trump administration. He has also indicated that he would step aside if Vice President Vance decides to enter the 2028 presidential race.

No resignation has been announced, and Rubio has made no public statement indicating that he intends to leave his current positions.

The speculation comes amid early political manoeuvring within the Republican Party over its post-Trump leadership and the potential contenders for the 2028 presidential election following the party’s setbacks in the midterm polls.