Trump's VP Search Narrows, With Rubio a Top Contender

Fox News reports that Donald Trump's campaign has begun "serious vetting" on several potential running mates, with Florida Senator Marco Rubio emerging as a leading candidate. Insiders believe that Rubio's ability to appeal to Latino voters and his experience on the Senate Intelligence Committee make him a formidable choice.

Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier has reported that Donald Trump's campaign has accelerated the vetting process for potential running mates, with multiple candidates being scrutinized. However, sources close to the campaign have singled out Marco Rubio as a name that Democrats "fear" the most.

Trump's campaign recently requested documents from several prospective contenders, including Rubio. Insiders believe that Rubio's close alignment with Trump's agenda, his strong TV presence, and his ability to criticize President Biden effectively make him a highly suitable candidate.

One top GOP strategist told Fox News Digital that Rubio is "a familiar face who has become one of the strongest voices in the Senate for the America First agenda, is excellent on TV, and can blast Biden effectively for his failed policies." They added that his addition to the ticket could "spell the end for Biden," especially among Latino voters.

GOP strategist Matt Wolking praised Rubio's communication skills, his fluency in Spanish, and his appeal to suburban and independent voters. He noted that Rubio's ability to win a higher percentage of White voters in Florida than Trump did in 2020 makes him a valuable asset.

"Trump would balance out his ticket by picking Rubio for VP, which cannot be said for some of the other options," Wolking said. "These reasons are why many Democrats fear the selection of Rubio the most."

Insiders also pointed to Rubio's experience on the Senate Intelligence Committee as a valuable attribute for Trump in terms of "reigning in rogue agencies."

However, some sources close to Trump's campaign have raised concerns about Rubio's past criticism of Trump, including his characterization of him as "reckless and dangerous" during the 2016 presidential primaries and his comments blaming the former president for the January 6th protests.

They also questioned whether Rubio is the ideal candidate to represent the Republican Party in 2028 and beyond.

Despite these concerns, Wolking downplayed their significance, noting that Rubio's hawkish foreign policy views may be the only substantial downside. He also mentioned the potential issue under the 12th Amendment, which prohibits electors from voting for a president and vice president who are inhabitants of the same state.

Sources familiar with Rubio highlighted his strong performance in states like Virginia and Minnesota during his 2016 presidential campaign, his legislative record, his debate skills, and his ability to energize crowds.

Numerous other names have been considered for the vice presidential spot, including Elise Stefanik, Sarah Sanders, Glenn Youngkin, Doug Burgum, Kristi Noem, J.D. Vance, and Tim Scott.

Trump has indicated that he will likely make his decision at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in July.

Fox News' Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report.