Former President Donald Trump made a surprising appeal to supporters this week, asking for their opinions on his next running mate — directly addressing the speculation that’s reached a fever pitch around his 2024 presidential campaign.
An emailed survey asked respondents to write in preferences without providing options.
“Before I select the next Vice President, I need YOUR ADVICE! I’m humbly asking for your response before the day ends. I don’t want to make my pick without reading your thoughts first!” the email read.
Republican leaders that have topped the betting markets include New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.
Trump has only stated that former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence would not be considered.
According to ElectionBettingOdds.com, Noem (17.7%) is the favorite choice for Trump according to gamblers. Stefanik (15.3%) and Ramaswamy (14.8%) round out the top three, followed by Scott (12.0%) and, surprisingly, Haley (9.1%).
The poll then asked supporters to rank key issues from border security to abortion bans that should drive 2024 priorities. Further questions covered ideal attributes for a running mate, like outsider status versus political experience.
Participants got space to expand on answers regarding the nominee search and were later prompted for symbolic donations like $20.24 or $47 to fund Trump’s presidential campaign.
Trump faces over 90 criminal charges in numerous upcoming court cases, and was recently ordered to forfeit over $400 million in unprecedented fraud and defamation cases in New York state this month.
One court ruled the Trump Organization was guilty of financial fraud and fined the former president over $350 million. Another judge ruled Trump defamed writer E. Jean Carroll over her sexual abuse claims and ordered him to pay her over $80 million.
The Republican primary front-runner responded by launching a new line of collectible sneakers branded “Never Surrender” last weekend.
One supporter paid a stunning $9,000 for a signed gold pair, underscoring the enduring loyalty of Trump’s base despite his legal woes.
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The Horn editorial team