This post has been updated.
CNN is confirming an earlier report from CQ Roll Call that Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has chosen Indiana governor Mike Pence as his running mate, and that Pence has accepted the offer. Pence was also spotted at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, once frequently used by Trump himself.
Trump is to announce his decision at a press conference in New York City on Friday, July 15 at 11AM. (Update 2: Trump has announced he will postpone his press conference due to the attack in Nice on Thursday, July 14.)
As recently as Wednesday (July 13), observers speculated that Trump would select former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich as his running mate. Other prospects included New Jersey governor Chris Christie, Oklahoma governor Mary Fallin, and Iowa senator Joni Ernst.
Pence, 57, is current Republican governor of Indiana, and previously represented the state’s sixth congressional district in the House of Representatives for six terms. A staunch conservative and experienced politician (both as an executive and lawmaker), it’s likely the choice precipitates from Trump’s admitted desire to find a running mate that could help him navigate the House and Senate. Pence also boasts a strong background in social-conservative politics, and maintains a close relationship with Evangelical Christians. Last year, he signed a bill into law that would have allowed Indiana businesses to deny service to LGBTQ individuals based on religious objections to homosexuality and/or gay marriage. He has also signed similarly restrictive measures on women’s reproductive health.
Roll Call’s source claims, beyond Pence’s experience and conservative bona fides, Trump was impressed by the governor’s “calm demeanor,” which stands in stark contrast to the candidate’s impromptu and at times boisterous style of delivery.