Former President Donald Trump and his allies are eager to shift their focus to the upcoming general election as his dominance in the early states narrows the options for potential challengers. Amidst this backdrop, one crucial decision lies ahead for Trump: selecting a running mate.

Typically, such decisions are made later in the election season, but this primary season has been anything but traditional. With mounting pressure from Republicans to make his pick, Trump is expected to announce his choice sooner rather than later, enabling the party to pivot their attention towards the general election.

Since his first presidential campaign, Trump has grown more experienced and assertive within the Republican Party. Through a hostile takeover and a deliberate ousting of old-guard members, he has solidified his grip on the party. This has resulted in increased anticipation surrounding his selection of a running mate.

Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, once seen as a potential contender, now finds herself with limited options following Trump's impressive double-digit victory in the recent New Hampshire primary. The top GOP officials are also voicing their desire for the primary to come to a close, adding to the urgency for Trump to finalize his running mate selection.

The relationship between Trump and his current vice president, Mike Pence, has been scrutinized in recent months. Pence publicly expressed how his family was put in danger on January 6, 2021, as Trump continued to criticize the Vice President even as the Capitol was being stormed by rioters. This incident exposed a long-standing history of negligence and disrespect towards the Vice Presidency. Trump's treatment of Pence during this series of events far surpassed any previous disregard for the position.

Nevertheless, several Republicans who initially criticized Trump during the Capitol siege have since aligned themselves with him. In today's political landscape, being the highest-ranking apprentice under a President can provide a significant platform for launching or relaunching national ambitions.

As the primary season comes to a close, all eyes are now on Trump as he weighs his options for a running mate. The Republican Party eagerly awaits his decision, which will signal a shift towards the general election campaign. Trump's choice will undoubtedly shape the direction of their campaign, and many aspiring politicians will be watching closely for any opportunity to align themselves with the former President's continued influence within the GOP.