In light of the prior treatment dealt by Donald Trump to his last vice president—prompting a mob and endorsing calls for hanging—you might assume there’d be minimal enthusiasm for the deputy role this time. Surprisingly, numerous Republicans are vying for the position. Presently, Trump seems to have a keen interest in a specific candidate: New York representative Elise Stefanik.
According to NBC News, during a “candlelit dinner with Mar-a-Lago members in late December,” Trump sought opinions on his running mate and expressed approval when Stefanik’s name was suggested, noting, “She’s a killer.”
Subsequently, Trump, along with a growing cohort of allies, has begun scrutinizing Stefanik as a potential running mate, as revealed by sources familiar with the matter, including individuals in Trump’s circle, Stefanik’s fundraising supporters, and former Trump administration figures. While Stefanik gained recent attention for addressing antisemitism, Trump’s interest in her reportedly predates this.
Stefanik has been on Trump’s radar due to a crucial trait he values in a 2024 running mate: loyalty. Coupled with her capacity to influence news cycles on pivotal issues, this combination could be irresistible for a vice-presidential selection.
Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist, remarked, “Stefanik is at the top,” emphasizing Trump’s preference for unwavering loyalty, particularly in contrast to Mike Pence, whom he perceives as having committed a fatal error.
Initially a moderate Republican involved in Mitt Romney’s 2012 campaign, Stefanik shifted towards Trump’s ideology after his 2016 victory, solidifying her position as one of his top allies on Capitol Hill. Trump acknowledged her loyalty during a 2022 spring lunch, stating, “She’s really with us now.”
Stefanik has unequivocally demonstrated her allegiance to Trump through various actions, including vocal defense during his first impeachment, efforts to overturn the 2020 election, early endorsement for his 2024 presidential bid, and vigorous attacks on those challenging Trump.
Her unwavering support extends to legal matters, such as going after the judge in Trump’s New York civil fraud case, urging investigations against Trump’s adversaries, and even filing complaints against judges overseeing cases related to Trump.
Stefanik’s loyalty has drawn attention, with some calling for her censure, particularly regarding her characterization of individuals charged in connection with the Capitol storming as “hostages.”
The intricate dynamics of Trump’s considerations for his running mate reveal the nuanced landscape of loyalty and political alliances within the Republican sphere.