45th President Donald Trump has selected Ohio Senator JD Vance as his running mate for the 2024 presidential election, ending months of speculation regarding his choice for vice president.
“After lengthy deliberation and thought, and considering the tremendous talents of many others, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President of the United States is Senator J.D. Vance of the Great State of Ohio,” Trump announced on Truth Social on Monday afternoon. He praised Vance’s background, highlighting his service in the Marine Corps, his education at Ohio State University and Yale Law School, and his successful business career.
Trump insiders had long suggested that his VP pick would be someone loyal who would complement his strong personality without overshadowing him, raise funds effectively, and be prepared to serve.
Vance, author of the best-selling book “Hillbilly Elegy,” has been a prominent supporter of Trump and a defender during his legal trials. Trump emphasized Vance’s focus on American workers and farmers in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Minnesota.
The announcement comes at the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and just two days after an assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. The gunman, Thomas Crooks, narrowly missed Trump’s head, fatally shooting one attendee and injuring another.
Throughout his campaign, Trump hinted at various potential running mates, including Sen. Tim Scott, former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, biotech mogul Vivek Ramaswamy, Rep. Byron Donalds, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. However, as the race progressed, some candidates were ruled out, and others rose to prominence.
In the week leading up to the announcement, insiders suggested that the choice would likely be between North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and Vance. Sen. Marco Rubio was also considered but had a smaller chance of being selected.
Trump’s decision to pick Vance aligns with his strategy to choose a running mate who has demonstrated unwavering support and loyalty. This decision has been met with a mix of support and criticism, reflecting the diverse opinions within the Republican Party.
Vance now prepares to face off against Vice President Kamala Harris in a potential vice-presidential debate if the campaigns agree on a network to host the event. Biden’s team has pushed for CBS News, while Trump’s campaign prefers Fox News.
This selection marks a significant step in Trump’s bid to return to the White House, with Vance playing a crucial role in rallying support across key battleground states.