North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum was on the short list of former President Donald Trump's potential vice presidential picks, and although Ohio Sen. JD Vance ultimately clinched the role, Burgum's political future doesn't appear to be nearing its end.
The Republican governor's second term is coming to an end in December, opening the door for other opportunities — particularly if his almost-running mate is elected.
And at the Republican National Convention Tuesday, Scripps News' Maritsa Georgiou asked Burgum about rumors that Trump greeted him on a phone call Monday with, "Hi, Secretary," before the former president told him they won't be running mates this election cycle.
Burgum skirted the question but said Trump has "been very generous" with his support. He appeared hopeful for his potential future roles, but adamant that those won't be possible unless the former president wins the election.
"In the call, he had nothing but compliments and, again, alluded that there are opportunities in the future," Burgum said. "But again, the focus right now: There's no cabinet positions for anybody unless he wins, and we've got a lot of work to do to make sure that we get President Trump back in the White House."
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In all, he said he was grateful for the chance to speak to Trump and that his first words to him were "Thank God you're alive," as the call was two days after the assassination attempt against the Republican presidential nominee. He also said he supported Trump's decision to go with Vance.
"I've said all along when he had 20 people on the list, when he had 10, when he had five, he had three — he had a lot of great choices, and he made a choice that's going to help make sure that President Trump gets back into the White House," Burgum told Scripps News.
Ahead of the vice presidential announcement Monday, Trump was said to have had four top contenders for the job: Vance, Burgum, Sen. Marco Rubio and Sen. Tim Scott. Scripps News learned early that day that Burgum and Rubio had been notified they weren't chosen.
Burgum pointed to JD Vance's small-town upbringing and "remarkable" personal story as added points to the United States Marine veteran's resume. Plus, he said Vance's proximity to battleground states may have aided Trump's decision.
"His backyard is three states we need to win: Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania. So very smart to get somebody that's going to be able to talk to the working class people of those states," said Burgum.
Watch the video above to see Burgum's full interview, with comments on tariffs, inflation and his fellow Republicans.
