Trump Postpones VP Announcement
Thursday evening, in the wake of the Islamist attack in Nice, France, Republican presidential nominee-in-waiting Donald Trump announced he was postponing his planned running mate announcement set for 11 a.m. Friday at Trump Tower in Manhattan.
Prior to the official announcement, Trump broke the news to his followers on Twitter:
In light of the horrible attack in Nice, France, I have postponed tomorrow’s news conference concerning my Vice Presidential announcement.
News of his pick, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, leaked early Thursday afternoon, but the Trump campaign insisted no decision had been made. Former Speaker of House Newt Gingrich told FOX News Channel host Sean Hannity, during his radio program, that he had not yet heard anything official from the Trump campaign.
Gingrich was another potential running mate widely speculated about in the media.
The official campaign announcement postponing the announcement event indicated that more information would be coming soon, but did not provide any additional details. Another factor may play a role in the timing of the rescheduled announcement.
Pence must announce no later than Friday if he intends to drop out of his re-election bid in Indiana. State law prohibits a candidate from appearing on the ballot for more than one elected position.
The terror attack in Nice resulted in the deaths of at least 80 people—a count that is likely to go up—and injuries to hundreds more. Trump responded to the attack on Twitter, as well:
Another horrific attack, this time in Nice, France. Many dead and injured. When will we learn? It is only getting worse.
And:
My prayers and condolences to the victims and families of the terrible tragedy in Nice, France. We are with you in every way!
