Former Vice President Mike Pence and former President Donald Trump have had a complicated relationship since the 2020 election. While Pence served as Trump’s loyal vice president for four years, their friendship was tested when Pence refused to overturn the election results in January 2021. This decision led to a rupture in their relationship, with Trump publicly criticizing Pence and blaming him for not doing more to help him stay in office.
Despite this falling out, Pence has not ruled out a potential run for president in 2024. However, it is clear that he will not be Trump’s running mate if Trump decides to run for president again. Trump’s search for a running mate may lead him to consider other candidates who are more aligned with his beliefs and goals. One potential candidate is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has emerged as a rising star in the Republican Party and has been a vocal supporter of Trump.
DeSantis has been a staunch supporter of Trump’s policies and has been praised for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Florida. He has also taken a hardline stance on immigration and has pushed back against what he calls “anti-American” policies supported by the Biden administration. These positions have made DeSantis a favorite among Trump supporters, who see him as a potential successor to Trump’s America First agenda.
If Trump were to choose DeSantis as his running mate, it would signal a shift in the Republican Party towards a more hardline conservative platform. DeSantis has been described as a “mini-Trump” for his brash and unapologetic style, which has earned him both praise and criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Some see DeSantis as a potential savior of the Republican Party, while others view him as a divisive figure who could further polarize the country.
Regardless of who Trump chooses as his running mate, it is clear that Pence will not be returning to the ticket. The fallout between Trump and Pence following the 2020 election has left a lasting mark on their relationship, and it appears unlikely that they will be able to reconcile in time for the 2024 election. While Pence may still harbor presidential ambitions, it seems that his time as Trump’s loyal VP has come to an end, paving the way for a new candidate to potentially join forces with Trump in his bid for re-election.
Overall, Trump’s search for a running mate will be closely watched as the 2024 election approaches. The choice of a running mate can have a significant impact on a candidate’s chances of winning the election, and Trump’s decision could shape the future direction of the Republican Party. Whether he chooses someone like DeSantis or another candidate remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Trump’s running mate will be no Mike Pence.
