Former President Donald Trump’s search for a running mate has been a topic of much speculation in recent weeks, with a familiar list of Republicans dominating the conversation. However, there is a growing drumbeat of speculation within Trump’s orbit that he may surprise everyone with an unexpected choice.
Many around the campaign believe that Trump’s penchant for the dramatic could lead him to pick someone off the public’s radar. While Trump has mentioned names like Ben Carson, Marco Rubio, J.D. Vance, and Elise Stefanik as likely contenders, there is a sense that he may ultimately go in a different direction.
One name that has recently emerged as a potential dark horse candidate is Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar. Salazar, a respected television journalist turned congresswoman, has been a vocal defender of Trump, particularly during his recent legal troubles. Her fierce defense of the former president has caught the attention of those in Trump’s orbit, leading to speculation about her potential as a running mate.
Despite her relative inexperience and the potential residency hurdle she faces, Salazar’s name has been circulating as a possible choice for Trump. With Trump’s openness to feedback from donors, allies, and advisers, the list of potential running mates seems to be growing, not shrinking.
As the speculation continues to swirl, Trump and his team are expected to make a decision closer to the Republican National Convention in July. With names like Tom Cotton, Tulsi Gabbard, and Nikki Haley also in the mix, the race for Trump’s running mate remains wide open, keeping political observers on the edge of their seats.