Report: ’95 percent probability’ of Pence as Trump VP

by TheHill.com - 07/10/16 3:36 PM ET

A Donald Trump campaign stop in Indiana scheduled for Tuesday is raising speculation that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee will announce Gov. Mike Pence as his running mate.

The Washington Times reported Sunday evening that Pence has a “95 percent probability” of being Trump’s choice, according to sources close to the campaign and to the governor.

{mosads}The first-term Indiana governor’s name has surfaced in recent weeks as a contender for the position. Pence tepidly endorsed Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas before the state’s May primary but later backed Trump, praising the chance to “take a new direction” in Washington.

“The kind of leadership that I truly do believe, to borrow a phrase, will make America great again,” Pence said during a Thursday campaign stop, according to The Associated Press.

Others said to be under consideration for vice president are former Speaker Newt Gingrich, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama.

Trump has said he will make an announcement before the Republican National Convention, which begins on July 18. Pence, who is seeking reelection to a second term as governor, would have to withdraw from that contest by noon on July 15 if he’s going to run as Trump’s vice president.

Former Trump adviser Michael Caputo said Sunday he’s putting all his chips on an announcement at the event next week.

“Right guy. Right timing. Right place #TrumpPence2016,” he tweeted.

I put all my chips on Pence/VP announcement at this event. Right guy. Right timing. Right place. #TrumpPence2016 https://t.co/i8mlmoJctf

— Michael Caputo (@MichaelRCaputo) July 10, 2016