Trump to announce VP pick on Friday, advisor tells CNN

WASHINGTON DC, USA – Republican White House hopeful Donald Trump will announce his much anticipated pick for vice president on Friday, July 15, his campaign chairman told CNN.

Trump will make the announcement from New York, Paul Manafort told the broadcaster Wednesday evening, July 13.

Among those believed to be at the top of the real estate billionaire’s list of potential running mates are Indiana Governor Mike Pence, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former speaker of the House Newt Gingrich.

On Tuesday, July 12, Trump campaigned in Indiana for a second straight day with Pence, the 57-year-old governor who is seen as someone with a steady tone who might soften Trump’s combativeness.

According to CNN, Trump and 3 of his children had breakfast with Pence in the governor’s mansion Wednesday. Gingrich also met with Trump during the day, while Christie talked with him on the phone.

Christie, a tough-talking politician himself, already campaigned with Trump in Virginia on Monday, July 11.

Trump meanwhile has voiced support for Gingrich – who himself ran for president in 2012 – telling the New York Times that “Newt is Newt. He’s a good guy.”

Trump’s vice presidential pick could be one of the most important decisions he makes on the campaign trail as he seeks to present a competent, steady wingman or woman to US voters after a turbulent primary season during which his provocative rhetoric frustrated many conservatives.

Next week, the Republican Party will head to Cleveland, Ohio for a national convention at which Trump will be formally nominated to run against his Democratic rival, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton. – Rappler.com