With 1,639 delegates secured, Donald Trump is now the official nominee of the Republican party for the 2024 United States presidential election. 1,215 delegates were needed to secure the nomination, thus kicking out Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis among others as possible nominees for the Republican party. Although challenging at times, winning the nomination was relatively easy and effortless for Trump.
The race for president is in full swing now, with the election set to take place in under eight months, on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The race is between current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump — a matchup identical to 2020. As both nominees continue their campaign efforts, the race will continue to develop and unfold, especially in the fall.
With many Americans feeling angered and trapped in the two choices, Robert Kennedy Jr. has been campaigning hard to gain public attention. With policies focused on changing the increased cost of living for Americans and supporting the middle class, RFK has gained traction in recent weeks. His campaign is rooted in unifying the divisions between the right and the left, a polarizing divide that has caused instability in the government.
“I declared my independence from both political parties, and from the tribalistic, us-versus-them thinking that has polarized our country,” RFK writes.
Running as an independent, unattached to either party, RFK may gain votes from Americans who feel disconnected from both sides of politics. Although unlikely, he may gain substantial support from Americans and beat out both nominees.
Trump searches for a vice president
In recent weeks, Trump has begun his search for a vice president for his presidential campaign. Although not confirmed, several lots remain open for Trump. Both Senator Tim Scott and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem remain possibilities. However, the list is constantly changing, with Trump’s opinion varying in recent conversations and news.
“One day he is trashing someone, and the next day he is asking allies about that person as vice president. Sometimes he’s just curious what people think of them,” one Trump adviser said.
Vivek Ramaswamy is reportedly out of contention for the vice president spot. Trump personally told Ramaswamny that he would not be offered the position as running mate. However, a cabinet role is a possibility for Vivek, particularly the role of homeland security secretary. Being the son of Indian immigrants, Vivek may help deflect criticisms of Trump’s immigration measures.
Mike Pence, Trump’s former vice president, is no longer a possibility for this role. He shared that he will not be endorsing Trump this election, mentioning Jan. 6 as a major influence in this decision. In fact, he’s not even sure he would vote for him.
However, the formal announcement of a running mate will continue for a long time. Trump is not close to making a formal decision on the matter. Trump has indicated that the pick will likely be announced in the early summer, right before the Republican Convention set to take place July 15 through July 18.
