Meanwhile, Donald Trump Jr. is lobbying strongly for Ohio Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), creating a competitive internal dynamic. A source remarked, “If it’s Melania over Don Jr., she wins,” though they noted her diminished credibility following her push for Mehmet Oz in Pennsylvania’s 2022 Senate race, which was viewed as a significant misstep.
Proponents of Gov. Burgum highlight his amiable, low-key demeanor as a balancing complement to Trump’s more combative style. His wealth and self-funded presidential bid, totaling $20 million in personal donations, alongside his connections to high-net-worth conservatives, make him a valuable asset.
However, insiders say President Trump remains indifferent towards his VP options, which also include Florida Senator Marco Rubio. “He doesn’t much give a f*** about it. He doesn’t love any of these people; he doesn’t know these people,” said a source close to Trump. Regarding Burgum, they added, “With Burgum, he likes his look, but they haven’t actually spent a lot of time together; one-on-one, just maybe five, eight times. He doesn’t spend time with J.D. He doesn’t give a f*** about Mike Pence,” referencing his former vice president’s ongoing criticisms of Trump’s campaign.
The Republican National Committee recently adopted a national platform excluding the prioritization of banning abortion, a move attributed to President Trump’s influence. Trump is reportedly wary of selecting Burgum due to North Dakota’s stringent abortion ban, which the governor signed into law. “It’s a little bit of an issue. It’s a pretty strong ban. You know, I think Doug is great. But it is a strong, he’s taken a very strong stance, or the state has, I don’t know if it’s Doug, but the state has, so it’s an issue,” Trump told Fox News Radio.
As the selection process draws to a close, the internal struggle between Melania Trump’s and Donald Trump Jr.’s preferences underscores the complex dynamics at play within Trump’s circle as they prepare for the upcoming election.
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