I stand by my assertion that, in view of the overwhelming anti-establishment mood this year (which I think explains why Cruz, despite being clearly anti-establishment, never caught on strongly), it would be to Trump’s advantage and not going against a *very* strong trend, to pick a VP who has never been connected to the establishment (by me narrowly defined as anyone who has ever held a GOP political office).
As for Newt, he is pro-Trump, a brilliant politician and tactician, whose talents would best be served, IMO, as Chief of Staff. In that position, Newt would be contributing daily to the strategy and tactics of a Trump presidency. As VP? What state(s) does he deliver? And what VP has ever had as much influence in a presidential administration as a Chief of Staff?
Trump is delivering his own states. Trump is going to win New York. You do realize that independents and the conservatives like Sean Hannity were not allowed to vote in the NY primary, only registered Republicans.
Trump will win New York. Does he have to get out the vote? Yes. But no way is carpet bagger Clinton who doesn’t even have a real marriage going to win New York over Trump.
Trump will easily win FL, PA, OH and likely VA and so many other states. Trump is going to win, it doesn’t matter who is VP is. The old playbook of choosing a VP based on a battle ground state is tossed out the window with a candidate like Trump. Which is also why if/when he chooses Newt, his supporters will understand Trump the CEO has selected the most qualified and competent person to assume the role. Trumps VP selection is not going to be window dressing or about a specific state in the general election.
Trump is not afraid to be honest. All he has to say is why he hired his VP. If it’s Newt, most people won’t need an explanation because Newt is so brilliant, has a proven track record and most importantly LOVES our country.