WASHINGTON (AP) – Donald Trump is on the verge of picking his running mate, with top contenders told to expect a decision from the Republican nominee as early as Thursday afternoon.
Newt Gingrich, one of the finalists for the vice presidential slot, told The Associated Press he’s expecting to hear from Trump sometime after 1 p.m. The former House speaker praised Trump for running a “very fair, open process” and said he looked forward to learning the businessman’s decision.
Joining Gingrich on Trump’s shortlist are Indiana Gov. Mike Pence and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, according to people familiar with the candidate’s thinking. All three have had extensive conversations with Trump and his family in recent days.
Trump and his new running mate will make their first appearance together Friday in New York. The timing is aimed at energizing Republicans ahead of next week’s Republican convention in Cleveland.
Each of Trump’s top contenders would add significant political experience to the GOP ticket. Trump, a political novice, has said for weeks that he wanted a running mate who could help him work with Congress.