A former Biden White House official said this week that Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) could be the greatest threat in a debate, which could ultimately pull votes from President Joe Biden and toward President Donald Trump. The announcement came as Trump is considering potential vice presidential candidates ahead of next month’s Republican National Convention (RNC).
Vice President Kamala Harris’ former communications director Ashley Etienne said in a recent media interview that Vance would be a potential threat in the vice presidential debates. She said that there were reports that Trump was looking for a good debater.
“I mean, he’s an incredible debater. I think he has this quality that makes him seem palpable to that one to 2% that actually might vote or that’s undecided, that will actually pay attention to the debates because most people don’t pay attention to the debates. I think he’s just got a quality about him where he’s super smart and sharp and quick-witted,” she said.
“But I think there’s there’s one other thing we’re we’re we’re not sort of taking into consideration, that is, I think J.D. Vance would pose the greatest threat to Kamala Harris,” she said.
Trump announced earlier this year that he would select his vice presidential nominee around the time of the RNC. The decision will directly impact the 2024 race and could ultimately decide the fate of the election.
Vance is not the only potential candidate. Trump is reportedly also considering other members of the Senate, such as Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC). The former president is also giving serious consideration to Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who has emerged as one of his key supporters in the House.
Scott was ranked as one of the top potential candidates. Trump praised him for his energetic support following his own brief presidential bid.
Trump is also weighing North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (R) for the position among others.
Doug Burgum leading Trump’s VP contender pack — for a surprising reason: insiders https://t.co/FHhVsoI8jA pic.twitter.com/RYZHiA6vmP
— New York Post (@nypost) June 15, 2024
The former president invited a number of the potential vice presidential picks to his Mar-a-Lago estate last month. He also reportedly requested tax and personal information from the potential choices.
There is the possibility of a dark horse candidate, as well. Former First Lady Melania Trump reportedly favors former Fox News host Tucker Carlson for the job.
There is one figure who will not be chosen by the former president. Former Vice President Mike Pence announced that he would not support Trump in a statement earlier this year.
