Trump to Announce VP Pick at July RNC—Names Four Contenders

Former President Donald Trump is expected to announce his vice presidential pick at the Republican National Convention in July, and his campaign has already sent vetting paperwork to several potential running mates. Among those under consideration are Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, Florida Senator Marco Rubio, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott. These candidates have been mentioned by Trump in various interviews, indicating their prominent positions on his shortlist.

J.D. Vance: The Ohio senator has received formal inquiries from Trump’s campaign, with multiple news outlets confirming his status as a top contender. Trump highlighted Vance as one of the frontrunners during a recent interview with Newsmax. Vance, who has been a vocal supporter of Trump, brings a blend of political and financial expertise, having previously worked as a venture capitalist before entering politics.

Marco Rubio: Rubio has repeatedly denied having discussions with the Trump campaign about the vice presidential role. In an interview with ABC, he stated, “I haven’t talked to them about vice president,” although he acknowledged to NBC last month that he is willing to support the campaign in whatever capacity is needed. Rubio, who has a significant national profile and experience from his previous presidential run, remains a potential candidate despite his public denials.

Doug Burgum: The North Dakota governor and former GOP primary challenger has emerged as a serious contender for the VP slot. Burgum has shown unwavering support for Trump, attending his Manhattan hush money trial earlier this month and appearing with him at a rally in New Jersey. Burgum and his wife also joined Trump for an Easter brunch at Mar-A-Lago, signaling his alignment with Trump’s campaign.

Tim Scott: Unlike some of his counterparts, Scott has been open about his interest in the vice presidential role. In a recent interview with Newsmax, Scott mentioned, “if you’re the guy moderating [the vice presidential debate], maybe I’ll be talking to you,” suggesting his willingness to consider the position. Scott’s recent appearance at a Manhattan fundraiser with Trump further indicates his involvement in Trump’s campaign activities.

Other figures have also been considered for the VP role. Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson has been asked for information by the campaign, although it is unclear how extensively he is being vetted. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, a staunch Trump ally and the first GOP congressional leader to endorse his 2024 presidential bid, has also been approached. Additionally, Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida, who attended Trump’s trial and is reportedly being considered for other roles, and Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who has a strong legislative background, are on the list of potential candidates.

Trump has indicated that he plans to announce his vice presidential pick at the Republican National Convention, scheduled for July 15-18 in Milwaukee. If he follows through, he will be the first nominee since former President George H.W. Bush to announce his running mate at the convention rather than beforehand. This strategic timing could generate significant media attention and boost the campaign’s momentum heading into the general election.

Several rumored contenders have been eliminated from consideration. Arizona Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake is no longer in the running, with reports indicating Trump’s concerns about her potential Senate race loss and the negative impact it could have on his campaign. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, once considered a solid pick, has also fallen out of favor following controversial admissions in her new book. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who has not endorsed Trump but expressed willingness to support him, and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who is being considered for a cabinet position instead, have also been ruled out.

The selection process for Trump’s running mate is closely guarded, with Trump himself being the primary decision-maker. Trump’s senior adviser Brian Hughes emphasized that any claims about knowing the VP pick’s identity are unfounded unless coming directly from Trump. This tight-lipped approach underscores the high stakes and strategic considerations behind the VP selection, as Trump aims to secure a strong and experienced partner for the 2024 election.