Burgum, North Dakota Governor, Ascends Trump’s VP Potential

Reports suggest that North Dakota GOP Gov. Doug Burgum is emerging as a potential running mate for presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.

According to sources cited by Axios on Sunday, Trump believes that a running mate is not the key to winning an election, but rather someone who could potentially succeed him as president, making Burgum an appealing choice that could attract moderates in the upcoming November election.

Burgum was an early endorser of Trump in the 2024 presidential primary race and has campaigned alongside the president in early primary states, earning praise for his leadership in North Dakota, particularly in the energy sector.

This week, Burgum was in New Hampshire to support Trump, a state known for its independent-minded voters.

Sources told Axios that Burgum and his wife joined Trump and First Lady Melania for Easter Brunch, possibly indicating future campaign plans.

Trump has been increasingly mentioning Burgum as a potential member of his future administration, underscoring his importance.

As governor of North Dakota, Burgum has played a crucial role in the debate over the Dakota Access Pipeline, which Trump has endorsed as a cleaner and more efficient method of oil transportation to the heartland of America.

At 67, Burgum is viewed as a reliable and drama-free running mate for Trump, similar to former VP Mike Pence, who was selected based on similar criteria but faced challenges during the 2020 election.

Trump has praised Burgum as one of the best governors in the country and expressed his hope of including him in his administration.

The selection process for Trump’s VP might reach a conclusion soon, with June being considered a possible month for the announcement, and a donor retreat scheduled for May 3-5 with Trump as a special guest and top candidates in attendance.

The VP candidates invited to the event include Sens. Tim Scott, J.D. Vance, Marco Rubio, Reps. Elise Stefanik, Byron Donalds, Governors Burgum and Kristi Noem of South Dakota.

Other attendees at the event, not considered as VP candidates, include House Speaker Mike Johnson, Sens. Rick Scott, Marsha Blackburn, Reps. Jim Banks, Wesley Hunt, Senate candidates Dave McCormick, Bernie Moreno, and former Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway.