By Ray Cardello for June 18, 2026, Season 32 / Post 1

Unless there is a major meltdown or a situation nobody sees coming, the Republicans have a potential ticket that should beat any combination of Democratic candidates. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio continue to impress anyone paying attention with their handling of any situation President Trump assigns them. With every public appearance or interview, regardless of the media outlet, both of these gentlemen show that tough questions do not fluster them, they have a complete grasp of the facts, and they answer the questions directly without serving up a healthy dose of word salad.

Marco initially comes across as very dry and stoic, but he quickly turns on the humor and personality that let him connect well with the media and audience. He is a warrior when facing a Congressional hearing in either house, and this probably comes from his years on the other side of the bench. He is unflappable despite the usual personal attacks on him and the President by the Democrats. He swings back with as much angst as what is thrown at him, but does it diplomatically. Marco has worn many hats in the last year and a half. He has been dispatched to various hotspots around the globe to help diffuse conflicts, and this administration has worked to end hostilities. He is the Acting National Security Advisor, Acting Administrator of USAID, Acting Archivist, and even filled in for Karokine Leavitt as Press Secretary for a day. Rubio is one of a dozen members of the Trump team who hold multiple titles, giving the team incredible experience. I have been a supporter of Rubio since he ran in 2016 and lean toward him over JD because of his experience in the Senate.

JD Vance is an interesting member of the Trump administration and, like Rubio, has bridged past differences with Trump. It is a testament to the three men that they can put the good of the country over personal issues. JD was an unlikely choice for Vice President because of his youth and lack of experience. Neither has kept him from performing at a level we have not witnessed in some time, if ever. He is not someone who just attends social events or fundraisers. He is by the President’s side and plays a major role in leading the President’s war on fraud and negotiating the deal with Iran to end the Middle East conflict. He, too, filled in for Karoline for a day, and it showcased his grasp of all topics, as well as his humor and ability to withstand the usual attacks from a hostile media. Vance even survived an appearance on The View, then filled in for an hour on The Five, and finally, one of the four guests on Gutfeld. In all different formats and environments, he had the composure of a veteran. JD may be young, but he finished his degree at Ohio State in three years after a stint in the Marines, and got his law degree at Yale, where he met his wife. He is in a successful marriage, and the Vances are awaiting their fourth child.

These two men share an incredible passion for America and adhere to the America First philosophy. Both are at a good stage in their lives and careers that they connect with a broad range of supporters. They are both magnificent debaters, and I look forward to them debating the other side and showing America why Capitalism and conservatism are the best route forward.

Author’s Note: Graphics created by Grok AI