Kayleigh McEnany urges Republicans to avoid early endorsements, back 2028 primary contest
WASHINGTON, DC: Former White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany urged Republicans to avoid endorsements in the 2028 presidential race, arguing that a competitive primary would better prepare the eventual nominee.
Speaking to Fox News on Friday, December 19, McEnany said that the GOP should resist the temptation to quickly rally around a single candidate. Her comments come as early maneuvering begins within the party following President Donald Trump's return to the office.
“I think it’s very important that the Republican party have a competitive primary,” McEnany, who served at the end of President Trump’s first term, said. “It makes you tougher.”
Early endorsements emerge as 2028 speculation begins
She contrasted having a competitive primary with Democrats' handling of the 2024 race, adding, “We see how much weaker, in my opinion, the left was by not having a primary."
McEnany said that she hopes Republicans embrace a full contest for the nomination rather than prematurely anointing a successor. "I hope we have that competitive primary," she said.
McEnany's remarks follow an announcement on Thursday by Erika Kirk, executive director of Turning Point USA and the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, endorsing Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 presidential race.
Speaking at TPUSA's AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Kirk praised Vance and signaled support for his future candidacy
“We’re going to ensure that President Trump has Congress for all four years,” Kirk said. “We are going to get my husband’s friend, JD Vance, elected [48th president] in the most resounding way possible.”
McEnany acknowledged that such backing could give Vance an early advantage but cautioned that the party should allow room for competition.
She said that early endorsements may shape perceptions, but should not preclude other candidates from entering the race.
Political landscape shifts ahead of future elections
McEnany's comments also come amid shifting political dynamics ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Democrats have seen renewed momentum in recent weeks following key victories in the 2025 elections, with messaging centered on economic concerns and affordability.
At the same time, some Republican lawmakers have expressed concern over declining poll numbers for the GOP, including for President Trump.
Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), who has been mentioned as a potential Democratic candidate in 2028, recently pointed to a poll showing her narrowly leading Vance in a hypothetical matchup.
The survey showed Ocasio-Cortez ahead by two points though neither lawmaker has announced plans to run.
President Donald Trump has so far declined to endorse a successor.
