CPAC’s straw poll showed that 53% of the more than 1,600 people surveyed selected Vance as their preferred choice for president.
This marks a significant increase for Rubio from last year’s, which showed just 3% preferred him as the 2028 candidate. Then, 61% wanted Vance as their candidate. The straw poll also showed that Rubio is the favorite member of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet at 60%, with War Secretary Pete Hegseth coming in at second place at 35%.
Washington Examinerwith the secretary of state’s handling of several issues, including the Iran war. The Iran war is unpopular with the American public, according to several polls. The issue has also divided MAGA. Some, like Steve Bannon, are against U.S. involvement in Iran, while others claim Trump needed to deprive Iran of nuclear power. A record turnout for the straw poll showed 88% agreed that leaders and influencers are creating controversy to divide the GOP, with many blaming the media for exaggerating the division. Nevertheless, Trump, who skipped the gathering, garnered a 96% approval rate at CPAC despite the MAGA infighting. Vance had a 92% approval rate, while House Speaker Mike Johnson had a 84% approval rate and Senate Majority Leader John Thune had a 57% approval rate. Texas, where CPAC is being held this year, is also home to the most contentious GOP Senate primary in the nation between state Attorney General Ken Paxton and Sen. John Cornyn . Paxton appeared onstage at CPAC after the straw poll showed him besting Cornyn, who skipped the conference, 67% to 21%.“Look we can win this race. I need your help,” Paxton implored the crowd ahead of the primary runoff on May 26. “Get your friends out. I believe this audience can make the difference. So I’m asking for your support. Let’s get rid of the guy that represents Washington.”
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