He is taking center stage.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum addressed a sizable assembly of Donald Trump supporters on Saturday, signaling intensified competition among vice presidential hopefuls vying for the former president’s nod.
Burgum, once an adversary in the Republican primary before withdrawing, lauded the presumptive nominee and criticized President Joe Biden during brief remarks at the New Jersey rally. He likened collaborating with President Trump to having a favorable breeze, contrasting it with navigating the challenges posed by the “Biden regulatory regime,” which he likened to battling a relentless gale force wind.
In response, Trump commended Burgum, hailing him as “incredible” and teasing attendees to “get ready for something.”
“He made his money in technology, but he probably knows more about energy than anybody I know,” Trump remarked. “So get ready for something. OK, just get ready.”
Trump has suggested that he is unlikely to reveal his VP selection until the Republican National Convention in July.
Earlier on the same day, Trump took to Truth Social to clarify that former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, despite her past service in his administration and subsequent presidential aspirations, is not being considered for the VP slot.
Various other vice presidential contenders, including Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, and Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota, have participated in or attended Trump’s rallies during the 2024 campaign.
Burgum’s remarks come amidst a backdrop of other contenders endorsing Trump in interviews and speeches, though some have hedged on whether they would accept the results of the 2024 election.
Senator Scott, for instance, evaded questions on this topic during a May 5 interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.” Similarly, Stefanik refrained from committing to certifying the 2024 results as a member of Congress during a January appearance on the same show.
Governor Burgum has previously sidestepped inquiries regarding Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Meanwhile, during a fundraiser in Washington state on Saturday, President Biden criticized politicians “auditioning” to be Trump’s running mate, suggesting they must pledge allegiance to Trump’s election falsehoods, extreme agenda, and prioritize his personal vendettas over the nation’s well-being.
