President Donald Trump has intensified speculation over his vice-presidential running mate while targeting Kamala Harris, who could be a key figure in the upcoming election if President Joe Biden decides not to run. In an interview, Trump acknowledged that while he has some ideas, he has not yet decided on his running mate. Trump’s decision-making process appears influenced by ongoing uncertainties about Biden’s status as the Democratic nominee.
.@JoeBiden has devoted his life to fighting for the people of our country.
At this moment, I know all of us are ready to fight for him. We will not back down. We will fight and we will win.
Join us: https://t.co/uFebNsiXMb.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) July 8, 2024
“I haven’t made a final decision, but I have some ideas as to where we’re going,” Trump remarked during the interview. “And a little bit, you know, we wanted to see what they’re doing, to be honest. Because, you know, it might make a difference.”
"Democrats would not be bigoted to ask of Harris what they would demand of any other replacement for Biden. No politician deserves Democrats’ deference," @JerusalemDemsas writes: https://t.co/1xr1JBBTnW
— Tom Nichols (@RadioFreeTom) July 10, 2024
At a rally in Doral, Florida, Trump heightened his attacks on Harris, mispronouncing her name and describing her as a left-wing ally of Senator Bernie Sanders.
Will democrats back VP Harris to take on Donald Trump? https://t.co/uJRB2RDWEV
— Avinash Kalla (@avinashkalla) July 9, 2024
Trump suggested that Biden, 81, would remain the likely Democratic candidate because replacing him with Harris would not be a favorable move for the party. “If Joe had picked someone even halfway competent, they would have bounced him from office years ago,” Trump said.
Trump’s VP choice raises speculation
“But they can’t, because she’s got to be their second choice.”
The speculation around Trump’s VP pick has focused particularly on Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Rubio addressed rally attendees just before Trump, adding to the buzz that he might be selected. Questions about Biden’s fitness to serve another term have been widespread following a debate in Atlanta, during which he appeared to struggle with his speech and train of thought.
This has led some Democrats to consider other candidates, with names like Harris and various Democratic governors being suggested as potential replacements. Trump’s decision on a running mate could be influenced by whether he faces Biden and Harris or another Democratic ticket. A close source to Trump said that while the Biden situation has not significantly changed the VP selection calculus, it remains an important consideration.
While his campaign has stayed fairly quiet to allow Biden to navigate rough headlines, Trump’s comments imply that he prefers to reveal his running mate at the upcoming Republican National Convention. The source close to Trump world indicated that Trump is relishing the suspense and theatrics surrounding the announcement, with comparisons to a dramatic WWE-style reveal. As Trump continues to tease his decision, the political landscape remains dynamic, and his choice of running mate is eagerly anticipated.
