De Santis, Haley, Tim Soctt? Trump shortlists six 'solid' names on for vice president

Candidates include Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Tim Scott and more

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Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump speaks during his New Hampshire presidential primary election night watch party, in Nashua, New Hampshire, US, January 23, 2024. —Reuters
Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump speaks during his New Hampshire presidential primary election night watch party, in Nashua, New Hampshire, US, January 23, 2024. —Reuters

Former President Donald Trump confirmed during a Fox News town hall event in Greenville, South Carolina, that he is considering at least six individuals for his vice presidential shortlist. 

Host Laura Ingraham presented the potential candidates, including former GOP primary rivals Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, along with Rep Byron Donalds (R-Fla), South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem (R), and former Democratic presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard, who shifted to the political right in 2022.

In response to Ingraham's question about whether all six are on his shortlist, Trump affirmed, "They are. Honestly, all of those people are good. They're all solid." He particularly highlighted Sen. Tim Scott, acknowledging his positive contribution and endorsement after dropping out of the race.

During the event, Trump expressed admiration for the qualities of the mentioned candidates, emphasising their strength as potential running mates. As the South Carolina primary approaches, Scott has been actively campaigning for Trump, who faces competition from the state's former governor, Nikki Haley.

While Trump has identified these six names, additional speculation includes Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), whom he has reportedly praised as another possible vice presidential choice. The acknowledgment of these candidates underscores the dynamic landscape of Trump's considerations for his potential running mate in future political endeavours.