President Trump’s search for Vice President seems to have been reduced once again. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) appears to be losing ground in the contest to become former President Donald Trump’s running mate. According to recent reports from the New York Post, Scott, once considered a top contender, is now viewed as less likely to secure the coveted spot on the 2024 ticket.
Scott, who endorsed Trump immediately after suspending his own presidential campaign last year, has been a staunch supporter of the former president, particularly in his home state of South Carolina. Despite his vigorous campaigning and loyalty, insiders suggest that Scott is no longer seen as a game-changer or standout candidate in the VP stakes.
The VP shortlist, which Trump is expected to finalize by next month’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, includes notable names such as Senator JD Vance (R-OH), Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Sources familiar with the process indicate that while Scott remains in the mix, his chances have diminished considerably. “I think it is extremely unlikely he will be picked,” one insider remarked, emphasizing that Scott doesn’t excel in key areas that Trump values for his running mate.
One significant factor contributing to Scott’s decline is his perceived lack of impact on minority voters. Despite being one of the few African American Republicans in Congress, Scott hasn’t resonated with the black community as strongly as some had hoped. This point was underscored by another source who stated, “There are stronger options, and Tim has the potential to serve in the Cabinet, so I think he’ll still play an important role.” Additionally, Scott’s television presence has been criticized, with one insider noting that he’s “just not very good on TV”.
Trump’s criteria for his vice-presidential pick focus on three main attributes: the ability to raise funds, effectiveness as a media surrogate, and debating skills against Kamala Harris. Despite Scott’s strong support for Trump and commendations from influential financiers like Ken Griffin and Bill Ackman, he appears to fall short of these critical benchmarks.
Adding to the drama are the dark horse candidates who remain very much in contention. Names like Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), and Dr. Ben Carson have all surfaced as potential picks. Each of these candidates brings a unique set of strengths that could bolster Trump’s campaign in different ways.
Trump’s former campaign advisors have hinted at the strategic calculations behind the VP selection. One advisor mentioned that Trump does not believe the choice of VP will significantly influence electoral outcomes, suggesting that candidates like Scott and Rubio do not hold distinct advantages over others like Burgum or Vance. This pragmatic approach underscores Trump’s focus on selecting a running mate who can effectively augment his campaign’s overall strategy, rather than merely adding demographic appeal.
As the race narrows, Senator Scott’s future role in Trump’s political landscape remains uncertain. While he may not secure the VP nomination, his unwavering support and potential for a Cabinet position ensure he will continue to be a pivotal figure within the party.
With the Republican National Convention fast approaching, the political world watches with bated breath to see who Trump will ultimately choose as his running mate. This decision will not only shape the dynamics of the 2024 election but also signal the direction of Trump’s return to the national stage.