The 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee is not just about propelling Donald Trump into a third consecutive nomination; it is also serving as a platform for potential Republican candidates to position themselves for a post-Trump future. While loyalists pay homage to the former president, a cadre of Republican figures is quietly jockeying for the 2028 presidential primary.

Iowa Republican Chairman Jeff Kaufmann, recognizing the inevitable shift, pointed out that the maneuvering started as soon as Trump became the nominee and gained momentum with his overwhelming victory in the Iowa caucuses. Vice presidential nominee JD Vance capitalized on the opportunity during his acceptance speech, presenting himself as a successor to Trumpian populism.

However, being Trump's running mate does not guarantee future political success, as evidenced by former Vice President Mike Pence's erasure from the eyes of many Republican voters due to his refusal to block the certification of Joe Biden's victory. Pence dropped out of the 2024 nomination race months before the Iowa caucuses, facing criticism from Trump supporters who deemed him a traitor.

Among the potential contenders for a wide-open 2028 primary is JD Vance, who starts as a seamless understudy to Trump. He is joined by others like Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton and Florida Senator Marco Rubio, both of whom are maintaining their profiles and making connections with key figures in Iowa. Entrepreneur and 2024 candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is also making a strong showing, appearing across television networks and engaging with state delegations.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who finished second to Trump in the 2024 caucuses and dropped out afterward, has been spotlighted during the convention. DeSantis, who aligns with Trump's brand of populism, emphasized "good leadership" and his own policy record during speeches.

Governors Brian Kemp of Georgia and Glenn Youngkin of Virginia are also positioning themselves for future options without fully embracing Trump. Youngkin, who has gained popularity among the GOP old guard, hosted a notable after-party beyond Virginia's delegation. Kemp, who faced Trump's ire for refusing to overturn the election results in Georgia, has stayed away from directly criticizing the former president.

As the 2028 primary approaches, Republican figures like Kemp and Youngkin are raising their profiles in preparation for potential runs. While they did not explicitly reveal their future plans, Kemp expressed support for Republican governors running for the White House, emphasizing their governing experience.

As the 2024 Republican National Convention unfolds, it becomes clear that Republicans are already looking beyond Trump towards the 2028 presidential primary. A new era in the Republican Party is on the horizon, with multiple figures vying for the opportunity to shape its future direction.