There are rumors swirling that ex-President Donald Trump may pull an unexpected maneuver ahead of the inaugural presidential debate with incumbent Joe Biden. Citing sources with knowledge about the matter who wish to remain anonymous, NBC News has speculated that Trump's surprising move may involve the early revelation of his vice presidential running mate – a strategic reveal slated to take place before the titanic face-off on the debate stage at CNN's headquarter. Ordinarily, such an announcement is reserved for the Republican National Convention, set to happen in Milwaukee beginning July 15. However, there seems to be a strategic shift in the timeline.
Insiders suggest Trump's intent in unveiling his VP pick early is a tactical move. It's a designed effort thrown in the mix to unsettle Biden, possibly making him stumble in what remains an already uncertain terrain for him. Prior sources have given different perspectives about the impending pre-debate announcement. Some suggest that Trump's key motivation is to have his team in place before he goes on the debate stage with Biden.
On the other hand, another source indicates Trump's interest in rattling Biden with a sudden shake-up before the debate, although he realizes it could present certain logistical and political hurdles. According to the NBC report, it must be noted that the credibility of such news depends heavily on the reliability of its anonymous sources, and as such, elements of doubt cannot entirely be discounted.
Nevertheless, the idea of Trump finalizing a running mate selection before the debate is an undeniable newsmaker. It's a strategy capable of stealing thunder from the Atlanta showdown. This move is quintessentially Trump – bold, unexpected, and a surefire attention grabber. It harks back similar stunts from his initial presidential campaign launched from the elevator at Trump Tower back in 2015.