The Veepstakes is on. Here are 10 Republicans Trump could pick to be his running mate

In a past life, former President Donald Trump hosted the reality competition, “The Apprentice.” Now, he’s hiring for a new position: his running mate.

With Trump as the de facto GOP nominee for the 2024 general election, numerous Republicans have been vying to join forces with him and run together against the Democratic ticket, President Biden and Vice President Harris.

And Trump has made his vice presidential nominee selection process much like a televised contest between rising stars and seasoned politicians alike who are trying to demonstrate their loyalty. Several contenders, including South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, have recently appeared on cable news shows singing Trump’s praises.

“They’re all out there campaigning,” Trump said on Spectrum News 1 Wisconsin in May. “It might actually be more effective this way because, you know, every one of them thinks they could be chosen, which I guess possibly is so.”

A lot hangs in the balance on who Trump chooses: His running mate could help shape the future of the MAGA movement. And, the vice president nominee could woo voters who lean moderate and are skeptical of Trump, along with other voting blocs Trump is looking to tap into.

But for Trump, who has said he’ll announce his pick during the Republican National Convention that’s being held from July 15-18, his criteria is straightforward: He wants a supporter loyal to his ways, and someone who can help him win the race.

So who are the top contenders?

Tim Scott

Tim Scott loves Trump. He told Trump that himself this January, and ever since the South Carolina senator dropped out of the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination,