Donald J. Trump’s running-mate search, as much a theatrical production as a political one, is now in its final act. In exactly one week, the Republican vice-presidential nominee is scheduled to address the party’s convention in Milwaukee.
The leading contenders for the role include Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, Governor Doug Burgum of North Dakota, and Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. They have been actively participating in the selection process, engaging in interviews, attending fundraisers, interacting with members of Mr. Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, and traveling on the Trump plane. Each contender has also addressed the devoted core of the former president’s MAGA movement onstage at a Trump rally.
Mr. Trump has orchestrated this selection process with the flair and finesse of a seasoned marionette puppeteer, using dramatic pronouncements to fuel speculation and maintain the audience’s interest. The aim is to shift attention away from his 34 felony convictions and create an aura of suspense around his final decision.
With just one public campaign event remaining on Mr. Trump’s schedule before the Republican National Convention – a rally in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, there is anticipation that he may reveal his running mate at the event. Some aides are also preparing for the possibility of Mr. Trump announcing his pick on social media just before the rally.
While there is speculation about the timing, Mr. Trump appears inclined towards a made-for-television announcement onstage at the convention. In a recent interview, he expressed a desire for such a grand reveal moment, adding to the intrigue surrounding his choice for vice president.
