There’s an electric buzz in the air as we inch closer to finding out who will be standing shoulder to shoulder with President Donald Trump in the 2024 elections. This past weekend, the suspense reached a fever pitch when Trump, ever the showman, hinted at a rally in Philadelphia that he’s already made his choice. The word on the street is that three names have made it to the top of his list: North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, and Florida Senator Marco Rubio.
This isn’t just some political dog and pony show. Trump’s known for his penchant for drama, but this decision is more than theatrics. It’s a calculated move. NewsNation, CNN, and NBC have all reported these three as finalists on Trump’s list – a list that started off with a wider range of Republican bigwigs like Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Tom Cotton (R-AR), Representatives Byron Donalds (R-FL) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY), and former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson.
So why are Burgum, Vance, and Rubio leading the pack? NBC reports suggest that it could be a close race between Burgum and Vance. Trump seems to have taken a shine to Burgum’s loyalty, good looks, and wealth – qualities that sync well with Trump’s brand. Plus, Burgum’s low-key personality makes him less likely to steal Trump’s thunder, which seems to be key for the former president.
Burgum’s expected presence at Trump’s upcoming debate with Joe Biden is also turning heads. Trump has hinted that his VP pick would be present at this event, making Burgum’s potential attendance a tantalizing clue. Whether Vance or Rubio will join him there remains up in the air, adding another layer of suspense to this political whodunit.
Vance, who has the backing of MAGA heavyweights like Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., and Turning Point USA’s Charlie Kirk, brings a unique appeal to the table. His blue-collar roots and youthful energy could make him a strong contender, particularly given his popularity in the crucial “blue wall” states. “JD is the only person in the final three — Rubio, Burgum, JD Vance — that is a popular elected official in the blue wall, and he’s also under the age of 40,” said Kirk last week. “So I’m on Team Vance.”
Then there’s Rubio, who has managed to stay in the game thanks to his tight-knit connections with top Trump campaign strategist Susie Wiles and other influential Florida GOP insiders. But there are some question marks hanging over his candidacy. Doubts about his ability to secure residency outside of Florida and his enthusiasm for the role persist. And let’s not forget the bitter 2016 campaign where Trump and Rubio traded barbs – that history could complicate Rubio’s chances.
Trump has repeatedly said that he’ll unveil his VP pick at next month’s GOP convention. Knowing Trump’s flair for spectacle, this announcement is bound to be a showstopper. As we count down to the convention, speculation and anticipation are running high.
And so, we have our final three: Burgum, Vance, and Rubio. Each brings something different to the table – whether it’s Burgum’s loyalty and subdued demeanor, Vance’s working-class charm and youth, or Rubio’s political connections. Whoever Trump picks will undoubtedly set the tone for the 2024 election.
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