Trump Auditions VP Picks Before Wealthy Donors in Palm Beach

Vance, Rubio, Burgum and Scott among leading contenders
Trump says he will likely announce running mate in July

Senator Tim Scott, a Republican from South Carolina, center, speaks during a campaign event with former US President Donald Trump, left, and Doug Burgum, governor of North Dakota, right, in Laconia, New Hampshire in January.Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg

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By Nancy Cook and Stephanie Lai

May 2, 2024 at 5:01 PM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Donald Trump is sharpening his focus on a possible running mate by taking a page from his days hosting reality show “The Apprentice” and parading the top contenders for the slot in front of rich benefactors this weekend.

Contestants jockeyed for a job with his business empire for over a decade on the NBC show, with Trump pitting them against each other for his favor. An exclusive donor retreat at the Four Seasons in Palm Beach this week promises a similar vibe — drawing hundreds of deep-pocketed GOP backers as well as allies eyeing the No. 2 spot on the Republican presidential ticket.