The New York congresswoman was once an aide to former House Speaker Paul Ryan and served in President George W. Bush’s White House.
What she brings: She could help Trump win over skeptical college-educated and suburban women who sided with Biden in 2020.
History with Trump: Stefanik has spent years ingratiating herself with Trump and positioning herself as one of his most trusted allies and confidantes on Capitol Hill. She defended him vigorously in both of his impeachment trials and railed against his criminal indictments.
Possible drawback: As a member of the House, does she have enough experience?
The only Black Republican in the Senate, Scott has represented South Carolina since 2013.
What he brings: Scott would add racial and stylistic diversity to the GOP ticket as well as a preacher’s touch. The self-described “born-again believer” often quotes Scripture in political speeches that often reach a crescendo of call-and-response.
History with Trump: Scott and Trump worked closely together while Trump was in the White House on policy issues including tax cuts, opportunity zones and criminal justice reform legislation. Though Scott ran against Trump for the nomination this year, the senator largely declined to criticize the former president.
Possible drawback: Trump has often joked that Scott has made a far better surrogate than he did a candidate.
