A number of prominent Republicans will not attend the convention, including the party’s last two presidents – George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush – and its last two nominees, Mitt Romney and John McCain.
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Finalists for the slot include New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Indiana Governor Mike Pence, and Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, although a surprise candidate is still possible.
(AP Photo/Steve Helber). New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie gestures as he introduces Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump during a rally in Virginia Beach, Va., Monday, July 11, 2016. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) in Indianapolis Wednesday.
The source says – as Trump headed to have breakfast with Pence this morning – the VP decision still was not made.
Sources had earlier told Reuters that Trump was leaning toward Pence. Traditionally, the vice-presidential running mate choice is used to build enthusiasm among party loyalists. Trump, a political novice, has said for weeks that he wanted a running mate who could help him work with Congress.
“I’m sure just coincidence”, Garrett tweeted.
Trump described Pence as “solid as a rock”, Christie as “strong”, and Gingrich as “a good guy”.
Next week’s gathering at Quicken Loans Arena will be must-watch TV with Donald Trump, one of the most globally polarizing figures, expected to receive the GOP nomination to run for president.
Trump’s Campaign Strategist and top adviser Paul Manafort, three of Trump’s family members, and Kushner met with Pence on Wednesday at the Governor’s mansion, which resulted in further speculation and media frenzy.
“I think he is someone who has connected with everyday Americans like no one since Ronald Reagan”, Pence said.
But Pence has had a couple of missteps as Indiana’s chief executive. A religious freedom law he signed had to be revised because it was seen as discriminating against gays and lesbians, and he had to abandon plans to create a state-run news agency.
Eastern time about the “vice presidential picks and the VP selection process”.
The initial speakers’ list is notable for other absences – including John Kasich, a former Trump opponent who is governor of Ohio.
Ryan tells reporters Thursday: “I hope that he picks a good movement conservative”.
Gingrich is one of the finalists to join Donald Trump on the November ticket. He is a natural emissary to both the establishment and to the right. He was House speaker when Democrat Bill Clinton was president in the 1990s, and they achieved welfare reform, among other legislative achievements.
Gingrich has been a steadfast Trump defender for months and has become a trusted adviser to the businessman.
But at age 73, Gingrich could have trouble appealing to younger voters.
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Mr Trump’s likely general election opponent, Hillary Clinton, is also unpopular with young people, but not almost to the same extent as the real estate mogul and reality TV star. His resume and conservative issue positions might assuage conservatives who worry about some of Trump’s past positions and more recent statements on social issues.
