Internet abuzz as Donald Trump tells Sean Hannity Texas Governor Greg Abbott is on list for VP

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Former President Donald Trump has stirred speculation about his potential running mate for the 2024 presidential election, revealing in a Fox News interview that Texas Governor Greg Abbott is 'absolutely' on his shortlist for vice presidential candidates.

According to texastribune, In a joint interview with Abbott on Fox News, host Sean Hannity questioned Trump about Abbott's consideration for the position. Trump responded affirmatively, praising Abbott as 'a spectacular man' and expressing his gratitude for the governor's endorsement during the previous presidential race.

Donald Trump praises Abbott's performance

“He’s done a great job,” Yeah, certainly he would be somebody that I would very much consider.” Trump commended Abbott, stating that he would seriously consider him for the vice-presidential role. When Hannity sought confirmation on Abbott's inclusion on the shortlist, Trump unequivocally affirmed, with Abbott visibly present during the exchange.

"So he’s on the list?” Hannity asked. “Absolutely, he is,” Trump replied.

Hannity probed further, inquiring about other individuals on the shortlist. Trump named U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, a recent ally who had initially been a competitor in the GOP primary. Trump lauded Scott as an "unbelievable" campaign surrogate, showcasing the potential breadth of his considerations.

Navigating tensions

While Abbott has not consistently aligned himself with Trump as much as some other Texas officials, such as Lt Gov Dan Patrick, who chaired Trump's campaign twice in the state, the two have found ways to strengthen their relationship during election seasons.

Despite occasional tensions, Trump provided crucial early support for Abbott's 2022 reelection primary, leading to a clear victory for the governor.

Abbott's national profile has risen due to his assertive policies on border and immigration issues. He has continued Trump's border barrier initiative, allocating state funds for its construction.

Abbott has invested billions in state resources for border enforcement, utilizing the Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety troopers. Additionally, he has confronted the Biden administration's approach by impeding Border Patrol access and implementing stringent security measures along the Rio Grande.

Donald Trump applauds Abbott's border security efforts in Eagle Pass

During their joint visit to the Texas-Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Trump lauded Abbott's border security efforts, acknowledging the deployment of concertina wire and measures to arrest illegal border crossers. The former president expressed admiration, stating, "He really stepped it up; it's been amazing."

The day was filled with activities, including a tour of the border and discussions about Abbott's border security initiatives. Trump took the opportunity to commend Abbott's leadership, describing it as "an incredible operation."

In a light-hearted moment, Trump even joked about the possibility of choosing Abbott for a Senate leadership role, even though Abbott is not a US senator and such positions are not determined by presidential candidates.

Public reaction to Trump's consideration of Abbott as VP

As news of Donald Trump considering Governor Abbott for his potential vice presidential candidate circulates, social media users express a spectrum of opinions and doubts regarding this potential political alliance.

One user wrote, "The chance that Trump picks Governor Abbott and is exactly zero."

Another added, "Didn’t he ask the governor if he wanted to be the Senate Minority Leader earlier?"

One commented, "Interesting. Trump doesn’t like “suckers and losers” who are injured."

Another wrote, "He is uncomfortable around disabled people, won’t work."

One said, "I'm sure I've seen this in a movie or cartoon, where they ask for a list of names and out falls a continuous roll of paper with endless names."