On a bright Sunday that could have easily been mistaken for an episode of a political reality show, former President Donald Trump turned the speculation thermostat up a notch on who his 2024 running mate might be. The scene was set on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures,” where host Maria Bartiromo played the role of the nation’s inquisitor, trying to tease out the big reveal. Yet, in true Trump fashion, the suspense was kept alive with a wink and a nod towards Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Gov. Kristi Noem (R-SD), sparking a fresh round of “will they, won’t they” in political circles.
Trump, with the casual air of someone discussing dinner plans rather than potential vice-presidential picks, laid out his criteria. “It’s gotta be who would be able to be a good president,” he mused, reminding everyone that the role of VP is a heartbeat away from the presidency, a sobering thought wrapped in his trademark bravado. But when pressed for names, Trump dangled the carrot just out of reach. “I haven’t and there’s no reason,” he quipped, adding to the mystery.
The plot thickened as Trump shared snippets of his conversations with Scott, who had previously dipped his toes in the presidential waters before rallying behind Trump. In Trump’s eyes, Scott transformed from a low-key contender to a fiery defender, a metamorphosis worthy of a superhero film. “I watched him in the last week, defending me, sticking up for me, and fighting for me,” Trump recounted with the enthusiasm of a sports commentator watching a game-winning play.
Then there’s Gov. Kristi Noem, who, according to Trump, has been “incredible fighting” in his corner. Noem, it seems, has already counted herself out of the race against Trump, declaring, “I can’t beat him” — a statement that could either be seen as a concession of defeat or a clever positioning for a VP slot.
The VP speculation game also includes a cameo by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), known for her unwavering support of Trump, further thickening the plot. Meanwhile, Trump leads the GOP pack by a country mile, leaving potential challengers like former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley in the proverbial dust, according to national polling indexes.
This political saga, unfolding with all the drama of a daytime soap opera, has everyone on the edge of their seats. Will it be Scott, with his recent transformation into Trump’s knight in shining armor? Or Noem, who’s already sworn fealty to the Trump banner? Or perhaps Stefanik, the ever-loyal ally, will step into the spotlight?
As Trump keeps the world guessing, one thing’s for certain: the road to the 2024 GOP nomination is shaping up to be as unpredictable and entertaining as a season finale cliffhanger. Stay tuned, folks — this show’s only getting started.
