This year’s high-profile Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) showcased an intense competition playing out in Washington: the contest to become former President Donald Trump’s running mate in this year’s presidential election.
Candidates used speeches, videos, and other messaging at the conference to raise their profile and win favor with the 45th president’s campaign.
Their efforts targeted the GOP’s activist base attending the annual conservative event.
At the conclusion of the conference, a straw poll of attendees judged how successful the would-be running mates were in winning over support.
The poll included 17 possible candidates. The results were announced on Saturday night:
- South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem – 15%
- Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy – 15%
- Former Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard – 9%
- New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik – 8%
- South Carolina Senator Tim Scott – 8%
- Florida Congresswoman Byron Donalds – 7%
Five of the top six had appeared at CPAC. Only Scott, who was campaigning on Trump’s behalf in South Carolina, did not make an appearance.
Throughout the conference, several echoed early loyalty to Trump while pleading cases to balance his ticket.
Gabbard deemed him the country’s consummate “fighter” while Noem recalled hosting his 2020 event at Mt. Rushmore, a site in her state.
Trump himself said he is looking for an unconventional but charismatic running mate to expand his electoral reach heading into a likely rematch in the 2024 election against President Joe Biden.
The Horn editorial team