Running mates don’t usually matter, but this year Trump’s pick could impact millions of votes in swing states

If you are on the fence between President Biden and former President Donald Trump, consider the current vice president and the past cases of Breckinridge Long and of RimaAnn Nelson.

The only major “known unknown” in this campaign that is certain to impact some votes is Trump’s choice of a running mate. My long-time opinion is that the candidates for the second spot just don’t matter much.

But, but, but… this year the age and what appears obvious to me and most of America — the increasing infirmity of President Biden — will amp up the focus on Vice President Harris and thus on the contrast between her and Trump’s choice of a running mate. Trump the developer knows “contrast” and its visual power. That future “contrast” has enormous political prowess, too. Trump benefits most by selecting a running mate who most sharply contrasts with Harris on intellect and stature.

More