Former President Donald Trump's campaign aims to announce his running mate by July 15, the first day of the Republican National Convention, sources familiar with the matter told The Washington Post, with two people dominating the conversation: Senators J.D. Vance of Ohio and Marco Rubio of Florida.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum remains a contender, and Trump, known for changing his mind, has been discussing other potential candidates as recently as last week.
The former president has planned two rallies for the upcoming week, one in Miami, Florida, on Tuesday and another in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. Trump has publicly stated that he would name his vice-presidential pick at the convention, with the nomination expected on July 15 and the vice-presidential candidate slated to speak on July 17.
This selection is one of the most closely watched decisions of Trump's campaign. In June, Trump mentioned that he had chosen his vice-presidential candidate but had not yet informed the person.
The Trump campaign previously requested vetting documents from at least eight potential candidates, also including Senators Tim Scott of South Carolina and Tom Cotton of Arkansas; Representatives Elise Stefanik of New York and Byron Donalds of Florida; and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.
Several Trump allies view Vance as a leading candidate, noting his communication skills and ideological alignment with Trump. Vance has received praise from Trump for his television appearances and has supporters within Trump's circle, including Donald Trump Jr. and Tucker Carlson.
Vance's allies argue that his working-class background, military service, and connections to tech donors enhance his appeal. However, critics point to his limited government experience and past criticism of Trump as potential drawbacks.
Rubio's supporters highlight his potential to attract non-White voters, his foreign policy experience, and his alignment with Trump's agenda.
Trump's choice carries significant implications for governance and politics. At 78, Trump would be term-limited if he wins in November, and as a dominant figure in the Republican Party for eight years, he has no clear successor. The relationship with his first-term vice president, Mike Pence, soured over Pence's refusal to overturn the 2020 election results.
Republican strategist Brad Todd noted the different strengths of the potential candidates. Burgum is seen as a choice for governance concerns, Vance for shaping the party's future, and Rubio for electoral strategy.
The decision comes at a time of uncertainty in the presidential race, with President Biden's future questioned after a debated debate performance. Some Democrats have called for Biden to step aside, with Vice President Harris considered a potential alternative.
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