What happens to JD Vance’s Senate seat if he becomes Trump’s vice president and gets re-elected?

Will Sen. JD Vance be chosen as former President Trump’s 2024 running mate? If so, and the ticket emerges victorious in November, the Ohio Republican’s Senate seat will be entrusted to a non-MAGA GOP governor. Trump is poised to make his selection announcement by mid-July, and Vance is highly speculated to be on his shortlist. Should Vance opt for the vice presidency over his Senate seat, Gov. Mike DeWine, another Republican, will be tasked with appointing someone to complete Vance’s term.

Vance could potentially serve as a formidable weapon against the Biden campaign, with Vice President Kamala Harris’ former communications director labeling him the “greatest threat” in a vice presidential debate. Etienne highlighted Vance’s exceptional debating skills and his ability to connect with undecided voters, suggesting that his presence could pose a significant challenge to Harris. Vance’s impact on the election cannot be underestimated.

DeWine, on the other hand, may choose a replacement for Vance that aligns more closely with traditional Republican values rather than championing Trump’s agenda. Their relationship has been lukewarm, with DeWine refraining from outright endorsing Trump in the past. However, Trump has shown support for DeWine in his gubernatorial campaigns, despite occasional disagreements between the two on policy matters.

If Trump and Vance secure victory in the general election, DeWine will have various Republican options to consider for the vacant Senate seat. Potential candidates include establishment Republicans as well as individuals backed by Trump, such as Rep. Mike Carey. DeWine faces the challenge of appointing someone who can retain the seat while reflecting the values of Ohio voters.

One likely successor to Vance could be state Sen. Matt Dolan, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, or Jane Timken, all of whom have received endorsements from both Trump and establishment Republicans in previous races. Dolan and LaRose ran against each other in the past but were defeated by a Trump-supported candidate.

Despite initial criticisms of Trump in 2016, Vance has since become a vocal supporter of the former president, positioning him as a top contender for the vice presidential slot. His willingness to acknowledge past mistakes and evolve his views has been evident throughout his political journey, demonstrating a commitment to the new direction he now champions.

The vivacious veepstakes involving Trump has narrowed down to three potential candidates, including Vance, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. These individuals represent a cross-section of the Republican Party and could play crucial roles in shaping the outcome of the election in key swing states.

Vance’s presence alongside Trump during recent legal proceedings highlights the closeness between the two figures, with Vance emphasizing the significance of the case as a threat to American democracy. Trump’s conviction in the case has only fueled his allegations of election interference orchestrated by the Biden administration.

The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s running mate selection has created anticipation among observers, with the former president teasing that his decision has been made but remains undisclosed. The forthcoming presidential debate is expected to feature the chosen running mate alongside Trump as they prepare to face off against their opponents in the upcoming election.

Trump has hinted at announcing his running mate just before or during the Republican National Convention, scheduled for July 15-18 in Milwaukee. The selection process remains shrouded in secrecy, enhancing the intrigue and speculation surrounding Trump’s final decision.