Former President Donald Trump is actively considering potential running mates for the 2024 election, with a wide range of names being floated in recent conversations and fundraising events. Among the individuals under consideration are Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, former Trump Cabinet official Ben Carson, and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.
Trump has been engaging with allies, donors, and Mar-a-Lago members to gather opinions on various candidates, with his interests frequently shifting based on recent discussions. While he has shown increased interest in Rubio, Vance, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, sources close to the matter indicate that no formal decision has been made.
The former president's campaign has compiled a list of over a dozen potential vice presidential picks for vetting, although Trump himself will ultimately make the decision regardless of the vetting process. Trump has hinted at announcing his running mate in early summer before the Republican convention, with the possibility of an earlier announcement still on the table.
Despite considering a diverse set of candidates, Trump has privately expressed that his choice of running mate may not significantly impact his core supporters' votes. However, he is mindful of the potential benefits a running mate could bring in appealing to specific voting blocs where he may be vulnerable.
One surprising contender in the mix is Rubio, whom Trump has acknowledged as a strong candidate due to his Hispanic background, youth, speaking skills, and charisma. The potential delegate issue arising from both Trump and Rubio being Florida residents has been noted, although it does not legally prevent them from running together.
While allies have suggested South Carolina's Scott as a viable option, Trump's level of interest remains uncertain. Beyond the vice presidential selection, preparations are underway to fill numerous administration positions in the event of a Trump victory, with a focus on appointing loyalists to key roles.
Overall, Trump's deliberations on his running mate and potential administration staff underscore the strategic considerations at play as he positions himself for the 2024 election.
