Trump Hints at VP Shortlist Including Former Rivals

Former President Donald Trump hinted at potential running mates for the 2024 election during a Fox News town hall, mentioning several high-profile Republicans and a former Democratic lawmaker. Trump described the candidates as “all good, all solid,” emphasizing the need for people with common sense. He emphasized the importance of selecting a vice president who could also serve as a capable president if the need arose.

The list of potential running mates mentioned by Fox News host Laura Ingraham included Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, and former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Trump praised Sen. Scott, noting that many people were talking about him and describing him as a great advocate.

Despite the attention on the vice presidential selection, Trump expressed his belief that the choice would have little impact on voters. He compared his ongoing legal challenges to those faced by deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, describing the legal actions against him as a form of communism or fascism.

Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s inclusion on the list of potential running mates was met with applause, highlighting her popularity among some segments of the audience. Gabbard, who endorsed Biden in 2020, has since left the Democratic Party and joined Fox News as a contributor. She has been critical of her former party and has spoken at conservative events such as the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).

Trump’s town hall also touched on his legal challenges, including a $355 million fine against his businesses by a New York court. Trump attributed these legal challenges to his involvement in politics and claimed that he did not have to hand over classified documents, despite facing indictments in separate cases.

Overall, Trump’s comments at the town hall provided insight into his potential vice presidential picks for the 2024 election and his views on the impact of the vice presidential selection on voters.