Trump Channels 5% Donations to VP Vance's PAC Amid 2028 Speculation

President Donald Trump is directing five percent of his political donations to Vice President J.D. Vance's PAC, Working for Ohio, raising $245,000 in May and June to support Vance's 2028 presidential aspirations. This arrangement, quietly established after Trump appointed Vance as finance chair of the Republican National Committee, not only provides crucial funding for Vance's political operations but also grants access to Trump’s donor data, enhancing Vance’s fundraising capabilities ahead of the 2026 midterms and potentially a 2028 White House bid. While Trump has praised Vance and acknowledged him as a leading candidate for the 2028 GOP nomination, he has also mentioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a possible contender, indicating a potentially competitive primary. Vance, 41, widely viewed as Trump's political heir, has been actively defending Trump against recent controversies, including criticism over a sexually suggestive letter allegedly sent by Trump to Jeffrey Epstein, dismissing reports as politically motivated attacks. Despite Trump's financial support, sources stress that this should not be seen as a formal endorsement of Vance’s candidacy but as a means to maintain his fundraising infrastructure during his vice presidency. The ongoing support and Vance's prominent fundraising role position him as a key figure in Republican politics leading up to the 2028 election.