Trump was speaking about a range of topics, including the future direction of the Republican Party and the 2028 presidential race, when he decided to test the waters in real time.

"Who likes J.D. Vance?" Trump asked the audience. "Who likes Marco Rubio?"

Vance earned the strongest cheers.

"Sounds like a good ticket," Trump said. "That was a perfect ticket. By the way, I do believe that's a dream team, but these are minor details. That does not mean you have my endorsement under any circumstance."

"I think it sounds like presidential candidate and vice presidential candidate," Trump added.

The comments are the clearest signal yet from Trump about who he views as his natural successors in the next election.

Vice President JD Vance, who has been a steadfast partner on border security, economic policy, and cultural battles, has long been seen as a top contender.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has often been floated due to his foreign policy.

Vance is currently polling at 45% to Rubio's 16.3% RealClearPolitics average of polls.