Former President Donald Trump’s potential picks for a running mate in the 2024 election have been revealed in leaked audio from a private lunch at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The audio, obtained by Axios, shows Mr. Trump discussing various contenders for vice president, including senators, representatives, governors, and former presidential candidates.
One of the top picks mentioned in the audio is Kristi Noem, the governor of South Dakota, who has long been considered a potential running mate for Mr. Trump. Describing her as “somebody that I love,” Mr. Trump praised Noem for her support and loyalty.
Another contender discussed in the audio is House Republican conference chair Elise Stefanik, who has been rumored to be a top pick for vice president. Despite her support for Mr. Trump, he reportedly expressed distrust towards her behind closed doors.
Senator Tim Scott, who dropped out of the 2024 race in November, was also mentioned as a potential running mate. Mr. Trump praised Scott’s performance as a campaign surrogate, calling him “unbelievable.”
Other contenders mentioned in the audio include Senator Marco Rubio, Senator Mike Lee, and Senator Marsha Blackburn. Mr. Trump is expected to announce his running mate at the Republican National Convention in July, where delegates will vote on his nomination as the Republican candidate for president.
The leaked audio provides insight into Mr. Trump’s thoughts on his potential running mate and sheds light on the dynamics within the Republican Party as the 2024 election approaches.