Trump Tells Ramaswamy 'No' For VP, But Leaves Cabinet Door Open
Donald Trump 'personally told' Vivek Ramaswamy that he's been ruled out as a running mate, however the former president is eyeing a Cabinet job including the Homeland Security secretary, according to Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter.
According to the report, "Some Trump allies see Ramaswamy as ideal for the job because they say he excels at public speaking and, as an Indian-American son of an immigrant, could neutralize criticism of sweeping immigration restrictions."
Their conversation is just one of many Trump has had recently with allies about administration positions as he seized hold of the Republican nomination. Loyalty, ideological compatibility and perceived electoral power are the metrics by which Trump is evaluating possible picks, according to people familiar with the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Those who have impressed Trump and his team for possible Cabinet roles include another former GOP primary foe, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, as well as Representative Elise Stefanik and former US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. -Bloomberg
Trump is apparently looking for a running mate who isn't "motivated by the limelight," but who will give the former president a significant edge. According to the report, none of the VP picks circulating have impressed Trump much, and his list of options has only grown longer, instead of shorter.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is rumored to be a top candidate to serve as Trump's deep state handler chief of staff.
That said, after Steve Bannon and Mike Flynn were promptly squeezed out by dark forces the first time around, Trump is looking for a series of top-level aides and Cabinet members who can enable his agenda.
Jared's back
Oh boy! Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law whose bed Bibi Netanyahu slept in one time, "has recently increased his presence in the campaign," and has been "calling and texting to offer suggestions."
Trump Jr., meanwhile, has also expressed interest in a key transition role - in part because he can act as a gatekeeper to block people who are opposed by the MAGA movement.
Don't believe the hype?
In response to an inquiry by Bloomberg, senior Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller said it's way too early to start speculating about Cabinet or senior roles.
"Apparently somebody has decided to list out everyone who has ever met President Trump and is now speculating as to their potential participation in a second Trump administration. The truth is that unless you hear it directly from President Trump or his campaign, this is all b.s.," he said.
Those who have participated in the discussions describe a quintessentially Trump experience, in which the former president peppers the conversation with political observations and media critiques as a steady stream of food is served, while he keeps an eye on cable news or chooses his favorite musical selections over dinner at his Mar-a-Lago club.
The former president has repeatedly expressed admiration for Burgum, a billionaire who mounted a short-lived presidential bid. He has been discussed as a good fit to lead a transition – and possibly the Energy Department. Burgum, like Trump, is a supporter of fossil fuels. -Bloomberg
If we're still believing the hype, one person who's been cast out of the Trump tent is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R), following his failed primary challenge. Trump "regularly vents" about DeSantis in private conversations, however the pair did reportedly have a phone conversation shortly after DeSantis dropped out.
DOJ?
One of Trump's top priorities will be to staff the nation's top law enforcement agency with an attorney general who isn't a deep state pawn.
Senate Republicans Ted Cruz (TX) and Mike Lee (UT) are on the short list, per the report, as "it would likely be easy to secure their confirmation."
Former Chuck Grassley lawyer Mike Davis, meanwhile, could potentially serve as acting AG or White House counsel. Another attorney, Mike Purpura - who represented Trump during his first impeachment, is also a 'strong contender' for White House counsel.
If Trump is reelected, FBI Director Christopher Wray's days will also be numbered.