He could have found his new VP.
In a dimly lit gathering at Mar-a-Lago in late December, the focal point shifted to an important decision looming for former President Donald Trump – the selection of a running mate if he secured the Republican nomination. As Trump strolled around the table, the name that surfaced was Rep. Elise Stefanik, a dynamic Republican from upstate New York. This revelation, recounted by a witness at the dinner, followed Stefanik’s recent viral moment where she confronted university presidents about antisemitism during a congressional hearing.
Trump, captivated by Stefanik’s assertiveness, expressed his approval, affirming, “She’s a killer,” according to an attendee. This encounter triggered a subsequent exploration of Stefanik as a potential running mate by Trump and a growing circle of associates, including those within Trump’s inner circle, Stefanik’s fundraising supporters, and former Trump administration figures.
Stefanik’s national prominence had surged after her confrontation with top university leaders, which led to resignations and intense criticism of the institutions. However, Trump had noticed Stefanik’s potential long before that episode, primarily due to a quality he values deeply in a running mate – loyalty. Combined with her ability to shape headlines on crucial issues, Stefanik embodies an appealing combination for a vice presidential choice.
According to Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist, “Stefanik is at the top” of the list. Loyalty, emphasized by a Republican campaign operative, is paramount for Trump, especially given his perception of Mike Pence’s alleged betrayal.
Following the publication of this story, Stefanik disclosed her plans to campaign with Trump in New Hampshire. Originally a moderate Republican who contributed to Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign, Stefanik realigned herself with Trump’s agenda after his 2016 victory, earning the distinction of being one of his staunchest allies on Capitol Hill.
Trump, acknowledging Stefanik’s evolution, remarked during a 2022 spring luncheon, “She was kind of with us before, but she’s really with us now.” However, when queried about the possibility of being Trump’s running mate, Stefanik maintained focus on her congressional role, declining to divulge details of her conversations with the former president.
Stefanik’s unwavering loyalty contrasts sharply with Pence’s stance, who faced criticism for not supporting Trump’s election challenges. As the dynamics unfold, the spotlight remains on whether Stefanik’s attributes, including loyalty and media influence, will position her as Trump’s preferred choice for the vice presidential role in 2024.
