Special Poll
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) openly expressed on Wednesday that he would feel a sense of disappointment if he isn’t chosen as the running mate for the presumptive GOP nominee.
Vance is reportedly a top contender on former President Trump’s shortlist for vice presidential candidates. He has been actively lobbying influential donors to support Trump’s re-election campaign.
“I’m human, right?” Vance remarked in an interview aired by Fox News on Wednesday. “So, knowing this is a possibility, if it doesn’t happen, there will certainly be a little bit of disappointment.” He added, “They’ll ask me if they ask me, and if they don’t, that’s fine.”
Vance’s wife, Usha Vance, also commented on the potential rise in her husband’s political career, stating the couple is “open” to whatever the future holds. However, she noted, “I’m not eager to change anything about our lives right now.”
Former President Trump has hinted that he will soon reveal his choice for vice president. The Republican National Committee’s timeline suggests this announcement could come by July 17, during the party’s national convention.
Alongside Vance, other names on Trump’s speculative shortlist include Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.).
Candidates vying for the vice-presidential spot have been somewhat elusive about their chances in public, but they have increased their efforts as powerful campaign supporters and fundraisers. Vance recently co-hosted an event with Ohio nursing home developer Brian Colleran that raised over $5.5 million for Trump’s campaign. Additionally, Vance has sought support from Silicon Valley moguls to back Trump.
In an interview with NBC, Trump mentioned that his VP pick would “most likely” be present at the upcoming CNN debate between him and President Biden.