In the 2024 White House race, former First Lady Melania Trump is emerging as an influential figure in former President Donald Trump’s vice-presidential selection process. Melania, who has kept a low profile since the campaign announcement, is reportedly playing a significant role behind the scenes.

Axios reported on December 7, 2023, that Melania Trump favors Tucker Carlson, the ex-Fox News host, for the vice-presidential role. This recommendation adds a new layer to the political conversation. Melania Trump believes Carlson’s robust personality could effectively complement her husband on the campaign stage, prompting her to engage more actively in the campaign.

The potential of a Trump-Carlson ticket has elicited mixed responses. Proponents view Carlson’s conservative base appeal as a strategic asset for Donald Trump’s campaign. However, critics are wary of Carlson’s political inexperience and the potential effect on the campaign’s gravitas.

Donald Trump has not formally announced his VP choice but has shown receptiveness to Carlson, praising his sensibilities and acknowledging his fondness for him. Some of Trump’s advisors, however, are apprehensive about Carlson potentially overshadowing Trump or veering off the campaign’s core message.

The list of potential vice-presidential candidates includes J.D. Vance, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Kari Lake, Kristi Noem, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, reflecting a diverse group of Republican figures with varying strengths and challenges.

Melania Trump’s backing of Tucker Carlson highlights her potential sway over strategic campaign decisions. Her support for Donald Trump’s campaign is evident, although she has largely remained out of the public eye since his 2024 campaign announcement.

In an interview in January with Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade, Trump discussed the potential involvement of his wife in his 2024 presidential campaign. Trump highlighted Melania’s desire to contribute to the goal of “making America great again” and anticipated her significant participation, mirroring her past involvement. He praised her as a dependable, intelligent, and compassionate individual who has been a source of advice and support.