Vance, Gabbard, Noem, Huckabee Sanders on Trump’s VP shortlist: report

The list reportedly includes a diverse range of candidates, including Senators Katie Britt (R-AL), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), and J.D. Vance (R-OH), as well as governors Doug Burgum (R-ND), Kristi Noem (R-SD), and Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR). Additionally, Reps Byron Donalds (R-FL) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY), along with former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), are also said to be under consideration.

Trump's campaign team has reportedly enlisted an outside firm to vet potential vice presidential candidates, per Politico. Trump intends to take his time in selecting a running mate, adopting an "Apprentice"-style approach, say sources close to the matter.

In the past, Trump has expressed that the top priority for choosing a running mate is someone “who is going to be a good president… in case of emergency.”

Donald Trump Jr. told Politico that in 2016 his father was searched for a running mate who could remedy the public perception of those who viewed Trump as a businessman and TV personality rather than a politician. Now, Trump Jr. emphasizes that his father needs to pick “someone who’s actually going to fight.”

Trump himself has echoed this sentiment, praising several individuals on the alleged shortlist as "fighters." At a recent rally, Trump referred to Sen. J.D. Vance in particular as a fighter, underscoring the importance of selecting a strong and determined candidate to join his ticket in 2024.

Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung emphasized that the former President will "choose the best possible person for the job and someone who will fight for America First values.”