There has been a big update regarding who former President Donald Trump is still considering to be his 2024 running mate, and the remaining list likely contains some names many GOP supporters did not think would make the final cut.
As the Republican National Committee’s spring donor retreat approaches this weekend in Palm Beach, Trump’s list of potential running mates has reportedly narrowed to four key figures: Governor Doug Burgum (R-ND), Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). The gathering of influential Republican donors and politicos could serve as an informal audition for these candidates. That’s according to Nancy Cook, Bloomberg News’ senior political correspondent.
NEW: Trump VP list is winnowing down to Gov Burgum, Sens Rubio, Vance + Scott. They will appear w/donors at RNC retreat in Palm Beach this weekend. No formal meetings with Trump yet to talk about the job (tho he speaks to all of them regularly): https://t.co/20LrzEEsrP
— Nancy Cook (@nancook) May 2, 2024
Each of the four contenders brings a unique blend of experience and appeal to the potential ticket, aligning with Trump’s vision for America’s future. Burgum, a relative newcomer on the national scene, is known for his business acumen and successful leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. His background in software entrepreneurship and his focus on economic development aligns well with Trump’s business-first approach to governance.
Rubio is an experienced politician who has been on the national stage for several years. He brings with him a wealth of foreign policy experience and a deep connection to the crucial state of Florida. Rubio’s conservative credentials and his appeal among Hispanic voters are seen as significant assets that could help solidify the Republican base.
Vance possesses a new, popular appeal. He comes from a working-class family in Ohio and has now become a celebrated author and a U.S. Senator. His story is similar to the disenfranchised voter base that Trump has famously mobilized. Vance is focused on revitalizing the American heartland, and his outspoken views on trade and immigration reform resonate with many of Trump’s staunch supporters.
Scott’s story is an inspiring tale of resilience and conservative values. Being the only African-American Republican in the Senate, he has a unique perspective on matters of race and economic inequality. Senator Scott’s positive outlook on opportunity and his dedication to faith and community service could help the ticket appeal to a wider range of voters from diverse backgrounds.
While no formal meetings with Trump are scheduled to discuss the vice-presidential role, the presence of these four contenders at the RNC retreat—alongside key donors and party leaders—indicates a significant step forward in the selection process. Trump has indicated that he speaks regularly with all the contenders, suggesting a robust behind-the-scenes dialogue about the future direction of the party and the country.
“We’ll be making that decision, I think, closer to Wisconsin time, if you want to know the truth,” Trump said about picking a VP to a Fox affiliate in Milwaukee during his recent campaign stop. “It’s very early right now.”
On Saturday, guests will gather at Mar-a-Lago for an afternoon luncheon where Trump will deliver remarks alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, according to CNBC. The evening will transition to a distinguished dinner at the Four Seasons, featuring Ohio Senate hopeful J.D. Vance as the main speaker. Following a dynamic weekend in Florida, Trump will return to New York to attend his ongoing trial, set to continue Monday morning.