Indiana Governor Mike Pence, a Christian conservative, is widely reported to be Donald Trump’s pick for a running mate.
Governor of the Midwest state since only January 2013, the 57-year-old is a lawyer by training and used to host a radio talk show, so his communication skills are strong and he is expected to add precious experience in Washington politics – and a dose of good manners – to the ticket.
And he knows his way around Washington: He held a seat in the House of Representatives from 2001 to 2013 and served as chairman of the House Republican Conference – the party’s third most important position on Capitol Hill – from 2009 to 2011.
Seen as disciplined and relatively discreet, Pence was apparently the favorite of Trump’s children, who exercise much influence over the brash billionaire and political novice as he campaigns for president.
US networks reported Thursday that Pence has already accepted the VP slot. Trump had planned to formally declare his running mate pick Friday, but has now postponed that announcement in light of the deadly attack in Nice.
Pence’s qualities stand in contrast to the more unpredictable personalities of two other politicians who were considered by Trump: New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former House speaker Newt Gingrich of Georgia.
The current House speaker, Paul Ryan, whose relations with Trump are delicate, says he himself considers Pence a friend.
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