With former President Trump largely projected to receive the Republican Party nomination in 2024, there is already increased speculation about who any other GOP presidential nominee will select as a running mate. 

Experts speculate that South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds are leading contenders for a VP selection in the 2024 election cycle.

Noem gained notoriety for her firm opposition to the COVID-19 lockdowns that were promoted nationwide. While most states were locked down, South Dakota remained relatively open.

By taking this policy path, Noem instantly put herself on the presidential map.

Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, in addition to South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, who are both vying for the GOP nomination, have been also rumored to be making moves towards being vice presidential candidates, should their initial presidential ambitions fall through. 

The rumors of Haley, Noem, Reynolds, and Scott being considered as vice presidential candidates highlight a Republican strategy to bring more diversity into their ranks.

With the first three rumored candidates, the GOP could make great strides with gender representation.

In the case of Scott and Haley, the GOP could score points on racial representation due to the former’s African American background and the latter’s Indian background. 

Scott and Haley are already polling at low levels in their respective 2024 presidential bids, which raised speculation that both are using their campaigns to position themselves for a potential vice presidential selection.

Both candidates have rejected such allegations and insisted they’re fully committed to winning the GOP presidential nomination.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders is also rumored to be another name that could be selected as a vice presidential candidate. However, Sanders indicated she plans on serving her gubernatorial term for the eight years that are allowed under the Arkansas Constitution.