As the latest midterm elections draw closer, discussions of succession within Donald Trump's 'MAGA' movement are emerging, albeit unofficially. This loyalty test is not openly declared but is rather managed secretly by Trump himself among his close aides and advisors. Reports from Axios and Daily Beast reveal that Trump has been inquiring about who his confidants favor to lead the Republican Party in the upcoming 2028 presidential elections, pitting Vice President JD Vance against Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio.

Contrary to speculations of a rift, Trump's inquiries appear to serve the purpose of fueling competition among his inner circle rather than signaling a withdrawal of support from Vance, whom he engages with increasingly. The reports emphasize that Trump finds amusement in the gossip surrounding these dynamics and is leveraging the competition between Vance and Rubio for his own political narrative. As Trump asks this question more frequently, it raises concerns and questions about his intentions and how they may affect the party's direction leading towards 2028.

This internal jockeying for position is crucial as Trump continues to assert influence over the Republican Party, and the political landscape evolves ahead of the next presidential election. The unfolding situation reveals the intricacies and conflicts within Trump's camp, shedding light on the greater implications for the GOP as it prepares for a post-Trump era, whether in 2028 or sooner, and how loyalty and competition are playing out among potential candidates.