NBC News: Abortion a Major Focus in Trump’s Vice Presidential Selection

Former President Donald Trump is carefully considering the issue of abortion as he ponders his choice for a running mate. Sources close to him suggest that voters may reject a candidate they perceive as too rigid on the issue.

According to an unnamed source familiar with Trump’s thinking, speaking to NBC News, the president views abortion as a delicate matter that could potentially backfire if not handled carefully. Therefore, it is unlikely that he will select a running mate who strongly supports a six-week ban or is unclear about exceptions to abortion restrictions.

The same source disclosed that Trump has been inquiring about the stance of potential vice presidential candidates on abortion, including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C.; Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio; Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y.; Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla.; and Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla.

It is suggested that Trump is unlikely to choose a candidate who advocates for a six-week ban or lacks commitment to exceptions regarding abortion limitations.

While Trump has hinted at potentially supporting a national ban on abortion after 15 weeks, he emphasized that a final decision has not been made. Concerns have been raised about Scott and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem due to their strong anti-abortion positions.

Noem, who describes herself as an “absolutist” on the issue, has indicated her strict stance against abortion, which is mostly prohibited in her state except in cases where a woman’s life is at risk.

Scott has endorsed a six-week fetal heartbeat abortion ban in South Carolina and supports exceptions for cases of rape, incest, or when a woman’s life is in jeopardy. However, his office declined to comment on the matter to NBC News.

Trump’s decision-making process coincides with a broader Republican effort to openly discuss their positions on abortion. The guidance provided to GOP colleagues stresses the importance of clarity on the issue to secure electoral success.