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Donald Trump Faces Tight Deadline to Replace JD Vance as Running Mate

 August 18, 2024

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, former President Donald Trump is reportedly up against a tight deadline regarding the potential replacement of his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, amidst rising internal pressure and public scrutiny.

Internal debates and legal challenges underscore the complexity of changing vice-presidential candidates as elections draw nearer, and Trump is running out of time should he desire a shift away from Vance, as Newsweek reports.

On July 31, during an event hosted by the National Association of Black Journalists, Trump defended his choice of Vance, arguing that the selection of a vice-presidential candidate typically does not alter the outcome of an election significantly. This statement came as Trump faced increasing scrutiny over Vance's suitability due to his controversial remarks and wavering support among crucial voter demographics.

Legal analyst Joyce Vance has noted the considerable logistical challenges Trump would face if he opted to change his vice-presidential nominee. She remarked on the complexity and time-sensitive nature of such a decision, emphasizing that "ballots do not create themselves," highlighting the intricate process of finalizing ballots which is already underway in many states.

Further complicating the scenario is the procedural aspect. According to election regulations, the Republican Party would need to either reconvene or secure the agreement of three delegates from each state to officially replace a vice-presidential nominee, a feat not easily achieved this close to the election.

Historical Precedents and Political Opinions

The situation has historical precedents, notably the replacement of Thomas Eagleton in 1972, which is often cited in discussions about vice presidential changes. This instance serves as a reference point for analyzing the current predicament faced by Trump's campaign.

Amidst the unfolding drama, Anthony Scaramucci, a former Trump administration official who has since become a critic, expressed on Aug. 2 that replacing Vance might be essential for Trump to regain traction in the upcoming election.

His view contrasts sharply with that of Christopher Devine, a political science professor, who argues that swapping running mates could prove to be a strategic blunder.

Preet Bharara, a former U.S. Attorney, weighed in on the discussion during his podcast Stay Tuned with Preet, describing the possibility of removing Vance as "exceedingly unlikely, but possible." His commentary adds a layer of legal perspective to the ongoing debates within political and public circles.

JD Vance's Controversial Position

Vance has been at the center of controversy due to his previous comments on issues like abortion, which have alienated some segments of the electorate. His popularity has suffered particularly among swing voters, a demographic crucial for winning the presidential election.

News outlets, including Newsweek, have reached out to both Trump and Vance's campaign teams for comments regarding the speculations swirling around Vance's role.

As of now, the campaign has not released any official statements responding to the speculation, leaving the political community and voters speculating about the next steps.

Joyce Vance's remarks encapsulate the prevailing sentiment about the situation: "Trump is just about out of time to make a change." This statement underscores the urgency and the dwindling window for any potential shifts in strategy within the Trump campaign.

Electoral Strategies and Implications

The discussion around the vice-presidential pick is not just about individual popularity or controversies but also involves strategic calculations about electoral impact. Trump's assertion that vice presidential choices have "virtually no impact" on the election outcome is being tested in real-time as his team navigates these choppy political waters.

The stakes are high, and the decision whether to stick with Vance or opt for a replacement carries significant political consequences. It reflects broader strategic decisions that could shape the course of the campaign in the critical months leading up to the election.

As the deadline for finalizing the ballot approaches, the Trump campaign faces a crucial decision point that will undoubtedly influence its path forward in the 2024 race for the White House.

In conclusion, the debate over JD Vance's position as Donald Trump's running mate in the upcoming presidential election highlights the complexities and strategic considerations involved in such a high-stakes political maneuver.

Whether Trump decides to replace Vance or maintain his current ticket, the decision will be pivotal in shaping the dynamics of his campaign strategy as Election Day draws near.