RNC Delegates Rally Behind Trump’s VP Pick: Vance Chosen as Running Mate

MILWAUKEE – The Arizona delegation erupted in cheers Monday following Donald Trump’s announcement of Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his vice presidential candidate.

While some Republican National Convention delegates admitted limited familiarity with Vance, they expressed trust in Trump’s selection. Joe Neglia, a delegate from Tempe, stated, “I’m not that familiar with him, but I’m sure he’s great. If Trump picked him, I know he will be the best … person for the job.”

Shelby Busch, chair of We the People Arizona Alliance and a delegate from Phoenix, echoed this sentiment, “He is our commander in chief, and what he decides, we trust.”

The assassination attempt on Trump in Pittsburgh highlighted the importance of a strong vice presidential candidate. Bob Branch, an at-large delegate and Maricopa County Board of Supervisors candidate, said, “I was looking for new blood. … Vance has a great resume, so I like him. He has a lot to offer this country, and if anything ever happens, I think he would be a good president.” He recalled past assassination attempts on U.S. presidents to emphasize the significance of a capable vice president.

Other contenders for the VP spot included Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. The decision was announced on Trump’s Truth Social platform, just before the state-by-state roll call of delegates. Utah Sen. Mike Lee informed the delegates at Fiserv Forum, where Vance stood with the Ohio delegation.

At 39, Vance is half Trump’s age. A Yale Law School graduate, he gained fame with his memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” which detailed his impoverished childhood. Initially a Trump critic, Vance has since aligned ideologically with the former president.

Julie McIlwain, a Maricopa County delegate, underscored the importance of choosing the right vice president. Tyler Farnsworth, an alternate delegate from Tucson, praised Vance’s credentials and background, calling him “outstanding.”

“Everybody’s been thrilled,” said Farnsworth. “This is a man who has served our country in the Marine Corps, has an understanding of the private sector, has not been a lifelong politician. He has made money in business, he has helped make deals, he’s young. … That is super exciting for the future of our country that we have young voices that will be in the Oval Office.”