Trump Turns Attention to VP Selection During Debate Preparation

According to The New York Times, former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, is prioritizing debate performances in his selection of a running mate.

Three unnamed sources who have spoken with Trump highlighted that he is specifically considering fundraising prospects, campaign discipline, and debating ability in his search for a vice president. Trump is seeking a strong debater who can effectively counter Vice President Kamala Harris, a former senator and prosecutor.

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign declined to comment on the factors influencing the former president’s decision, emphasizing that only Trump knows how he will decide and whom he will choose.

The Times pointed out that potential vice presidential candidates like Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson have struggled in GOP primary debates, potentially impacting their chances of being selected as Trump’s running mate.

Kellyanne Conway, Trump’s former campaign manager, mentioned that the skills required to excel in debates, such as quick-thinking and charisma, are also beneficial outside of debate settings. Conversely, weak debate performance may hinder a candidate’s ability to communicate their candidacy effectively to voters.