As the first presidential debate approaches, chatter is intensifying within former President Donald Trump’s campaign about a possible early reveal of his vice presidential pick. Sources close to the campaign, speaking on the condition of anonymity, have told NBC News that an announcement could come this week—a strategic move designed to create buzz well ahead of next month’s Republican convention.
Trump, who has previously hinted at timing his vice presidential announcement close to the convention, might be altering his playbook. According to four individuals familiar with the campaign’s discussions, there have been intense deliberations about accelerating the timeline to make a significant impact soon. However, these sources cautioned that plans remain fluid.
The final decision on when to unveil Trump’s running mate could still align closer to the convention, ensuring maximum attention as the drama unfolds. Trump’s schedule is packed as he gears up for a critical week. He is set to square off against Joe Biden in Atlanta for his first debate of the 2024 election cycle. The following day, Trump will head to Virginia for a rally.
NBC News reported that Governor Doug Burgum (R-ND), Senator JD Vance (R-OH), and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) are top contenders for the coveted spot. Trump, keeping the details close to his chest, revealed over the weekend that he has made his choice and that his running mate will be by his side at the upcoming debate.
All eyes will be on Rubio, Vance, and Burgum as they are expected to attend the marquee event. This could serve as a pivotal moment for Trump’s campaign, offering a platform to showcase his vice presidential pick and set the tone for his run toward the White House.
Sources close to Trump report mixed signals about his strategy. One insider indicated that Trump is keen on solidifying his ticket before going head-to-head with Biden, aiming for a united front as the debate stage looms. However, another source suggested that Trump is toying with the idea of unveiling his vice presidential pick as a strategic surprise, potentially to unsettle Biden right before their confrontation.
Yet, this potential curveball comes with its own set of challenges. Introducing a running mate at the last minute could pose logistical hurdles and stir political repercussions. A third person with insider knowledge of the planning process noted a significant strategic pivot earlier in the week. “Early last week, there was a definitive shift away from an announcement timed with the start of the convention.”
The flurry of activity comes just as Trump faces a narrowing window to introduce his vice presidential pick. With the Republican National Convention looming on July 15 in Milwaukee, time is of the essence. Adding to the urgency, Trump is scheduled to be sentenced just four days before the convention for his conviction in New York on 34 counts of falsifying business documents related to hush money payments. The payments were allegedly made to cover up a sexual encounter with adult film star Stormy Daniels, an allegation Trump has consistently denied.
"*" indicates required fields
