VP hopefuls audition on Trump’s hush money trial stage

Republican Senators JD Vance and Tommy Tuberville make a dramatic appearance at Donald Trump’s hush money trial in Manhattan Criminal Court, vying for the coveted role of his 2024 running mate. The two senators stood behind the former president, criticizing the court proceedings and accusing prosecutors of inflicting “mental anguish” on Mr. Trump.

Senator Tuberville of Alabama expressed his disappointment with the lack of respect shown to Mr. Trump in court, emphasizing the need to address him as “former president Trump.” Meanwhile, Senator Vance of Ohio echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the trial as a form of psychological torture aimed at the Republican candidate for president.

The presence of these senators at the trial has sparked speculation about their potential selection as Mr. Trump’s running mate, with MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell dubbing them the “vice-presidential nominee audition bench.” Other prominent Republicans, including Senator Rick Scott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, have also attended the trial in support of the former president.

As the trial continues, Mr. Trump’s campaign remains tight-lipped about his choice for vice president, hinting at an announcement at the Republican National Convention in July. The former president’s thoughts on potential running mates were revealed in audio obtained from a private lunch, where he discussed his contenders with major Republican donors.

With the spotlight on the Manhattan Criminal Court, the political drama unfolds as Republican figures jostle for the chance to join Mr. Trump on the 2024 presidential ticket, adding intrigue to an already high-stakes trial.