Breaking this afternoon is news that Donald Trump appears poised to name Indiana Governor Mike Pence as his Vice Presidential nominee. The two have been in close contact this week and sources indicate Pence will be in Manhattan tomorrow for the announcement alongside Trump. This would answer the question of why Pence was left off the list of RNC speakers which was released today.
Report from Roll Call:
Donald Trump is planning to announce that Indiana Gov. Mike Pence is his choice for his vice presidential running mate, according to a Republican with direct knowledge of the decision.
As Trump narrowed in on his choice of Pence, the two men spent time at both Trump’s golf resort in New Jersey in early July and at the Indiana governor’s mansion this week.
In addition to testing the men’s chemistry together, Trump was reportedly impressed with Pence’s calm demeanor, his experience on Capitol Hill and as a governor, and Pence’s potential to assist Trump in governing, should the ticket win in November.
Trump’s campaign tweeted that no decision has been made and that the announcement will be made publicly at an event at Trump Tower at 11 a.m. Friday morning.
In addition to Pence, Trump has considered former speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Army Gen. Michael Flynn for the No. 2 spot on his ticket. Some contenders, including Sens. Bob Corker of Tennessee and Joni Ernst of Iowa, took themselves out of the running.
Trump’s team stresses that no decision has formally been made, but all the signs are pointing to Pence from within the campaign. The New York Times is reporting the same thing.
Pence is a departure from the likes of Newt Gingrich or Chris Christie, both of whom are firebrands of political engagement. Pence is rather quiet in comparison, and up until very recently, had no prior relationship with Trump. Apparently the rally in Indiana went well this week and Pence must have impressed Trump’s family who was also in attendance for meetings with the Indiana Governor in recent days.
There’s definitely some strategy involved in picking someone without the major baggage like Gingrich. Pence is well-known for his strong evangelical beliefs and will probably serve as a balance to let Trump run more moderately on some issues.
Look for the formal announcement Friday morning at 11am ET.
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