Former President Donald Trump rallied his supporters in New Hampshire on Friday night, delivering a speech in which he urged Republicans to unite behind him and replace President Joe Biden. During the rally, Trump also hinted at potential running mates for his 2024 presidential campaign, stating that he is unlikely to choose 2024 Republican nomination rival Nikki Haley as his vice president.
Speaking to a crowd in Concord, New Hampshire, Trump criticized Haley, stating that she is “not presidential timber” and implying that she would not be chosen as his running mate. However, he did mention other politicians who could be potential options, including Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, who endorsed Trump at the rally.
Scott, who dropped out of the 2024 race in November, emphasized the need for party unity in order to defeat Biden. He argued, “It’s time for us to unite our party so that we make sure that the only target we’re talking about is firing Biden. Our country can’t take four more years. I’m not sure we could take ten more months.” Scott’s endorsement is seen as significant, as he remains popular among Republican primary voters.
While Scott downplayed the possibility of becoming Trump’s running mate when he dropped out of the race, sources close to the senator now suggest that he has not ruled out the option. With Trump’s strong showing in the Iowa caucuses, speculation about his potential running mate has increased. Besides Scott, other names being mentioned include Representative Elise Stefanik of New York and Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio.
Stefanik, a staunch Trump supporter, expressed her willingness to serve in a Trump administration in any capacity. Vance also indicated that he would consider the offer if Trump asked him, stating, “Certainly, if the president asked, I would have to think about it because I want to help him.”
Other politicians who have campaigned with or on behalf of Trump, such as South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina, are also being considered as potential running mates.
Despite Trump’s previous statement that he already knows who his running mate will be, insiders say that few have a good sense of his leanings. Loyalty and support for Trump’s agenda are seen as important factors in his decision-making process.
As the nomination race continues, timing is crucial for those considering the vice presidential slot. Republican strategist Ryan Williams noted that coming out to campaign and support Trump now, before the race is officially settled, could increase one’s chances of being considered.
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