According to a former staffer for Vice President Kamala Harris, a potential vice presidential candidate on Donald Trump’s shortlist could significantly challenge Harris in a debate.
Republican Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, who has been described as a formidable debater by Ashley Etienne, Harris’ former communications director, has the skills to sway undecided voters with his sharp and quick-witted demeanor.
Vance, elected to the Senate in 2022, has been mentioned by Trump in discussions about his potential running mates, though no official decision has been made. The final choice will likely be announced during the GOP National Convention in July in Milwaukee.
The list of possible running mates for Trump has varied, including names like Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. Rubio is seen as a strong contender by political strategists like Justin Sayfie and Jason Cabel Roe, who believe his communication skills and respected presence on Capitol Hill could make him an effective vice presidential pick.
Other potential candidates being considered include Senator Tim Scott, Governor Doug Burgum, Representatives Byron Donalds and Elise Stefanik, Senator Tom Cotton, and former HUD Secretary Ben Carson. Trump’s final decision remains unpredictable, as noted by David Urban, a former senior adviser to Trump.