Vice President JD Vance, positioned as the Trump administration’s bridge to Generation Z, seems to be facing a skepticism from young voters within his own party as they consider their options for the 2028 presidential race.

During a focus group organized by Longwell Partners and shared with POLITICO, nine young men who supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election expressed lukewarm feelings towards Vance. The participants, all aged between 18 and 24, indicated that the Vice President carries too much of the baggage from Trump's second term. Alexandre M., a voter from Maryland, voiced a desire for fresh leadership, particularly due to dissatisfaction with the handling of the Epstein files, an issue Vance also strongly supported.

The group was also asked about other potential Republican candidates they would favor in 2028. Names such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback were mentioned as preferable choices. Only one participant initially showed support for Vance, though he later expressed uncertainty.

Electability and consistency were the main concerns regarding Vance. Sam Z., from Minnesota, doubted Vance's ability to win a presidential race, citing his deep ties with the current political establishment, which he believes is viewed negatively by the public. He also pointed out Vance's shifting positions over the years, suggesting a lack of steady political identity.

The sole supporter of Vance in the group, Ruben T. from Georgia, appreciated Vance’s experience due to his tenure as Vice President, considering it an advantage over other potential candidates.

Beyond the discussion of potential candidates, the focus group also touched on broader policy issues, such as U.S. support for Israel. A split emerged with five young men feeling the U.S. over supports Israel, while four thought the support was adequate. Influenced by conspiracy theories, including one propagated by Candace Owens regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk, participants like Richard B. from Pennsylvania expressed reservations about the Republican party's traditional stance on Israel.

Views also converged on a domestic-first approach when discussing Trump’s idea of purchasing Greenland. None of the participants supported the idea, with Mukeesh S. from California and Dillon from Rhode Island highlighting the need to focus on domestic issues rather than international expansions.

This focus group reveals a significant generational shift within the Republican base, highlighting a desire for new leadership and a reevaluation of traditional party stances on foreign policy. As the 2028 elections approach, these young voters' preferences may shape the future direction of the Republican Party.