Marco Rubio’s 2028 presidential odds jump to 7 percent after Nicolas Maduro’s capture in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, DC: The strike in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro was celebrated in the country, but the outcome extended beyond Venezuela. The operation also delivered a political boost to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Reports say Rubio’s chances in the presidential race increased by 3 percent in the two days following Maduro’s capture.

Rubio was involved in the operation, which took place on Friday, January 2. His name has also been floated as a potential candidate in the 2028 presidential election, alongside JD Vance, both of whom Donald Trump has highlighted during interviews.

Marco Rubio climbs in 2028 presidential odds after Venezuela op

According to Polymarket, Marco Rubio’s chances of winning the 2028 Republican primary have nearly doubled over the past two days. His presidential odds rose from 4 percent to 7 percent following the US operation that led to the capture of Venezuela’s leader, Nicolas Maduro.

A post shared on Monday, January 5, showed the latest standings in the 2028 presidential race, highlighting leading candidates, recent gains, and rising contenders. Rubio appeared alongside JD Vance as a candidate gaining momentum.

Vance is currently leading the 2028 presidential race with 31 percent support, holding a clear advantage. Gavin Newsom is in second place with 18 percent, creating a 13-point gap. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ranks third with 8 percent, followed closely by Marco Rubio at 7 percent.

Trump rounds out the top five with 3 percent.

Marco Rubio’s Venezuela role puts him in 2028 Republican spotlight

Marco Rubio played an active role in the Venezuela airstrike alongside President Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth. Trump shared several candid images on social media showing moments as he watched the live broadcast of the strike. The posts highlighted Rubio’s involvement and put a spotlight on his influence in high-profile national security operations.

As the president’s interim national security adviser, Rubio has frequently been mentioned by Trump when questions arise about potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election following the end of Trump’s second term. Over time, Trump has consistently cited two names — Rubio and JD Vance.

According to Vanity Fair, Rubio has made it clear that he would not run if Vance enters the race. “If JD Vance runs for president, he’s going to be our nominee, and I’ll be one of the first people to support him,” Rubio said.

He emphasized that his priority is party unity and ensuring a strong Republican candidate, even if it means stepping aside.