Former Vice President Mike Pence has taken the first formal step towards a 2024 Republican presidential bid, positioning himself as a potential contender against his ex-boss, Donald Trump.
On Monday, Pence submitted the requisite documentation to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to formalize his intention to run.
Pence’s campaign kick-off is reportedly slated for June 7, which coincides with his birthday.
The launch rally is expected to be held in Des Moines, Iowa, marking the beginning of his political journey for the upcoming presidential election.
As the race for the Republican primary in 2024 takes shape, Donald Trump, the former president, continues to be the frontrunner among declared and potential candidates.
A recent national poll by Quinnipiac University indicates that Trump leads the pack with the support of 56% of Republican and Republican-leaning voters.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is the next favored candidate with 25% backing.
Nikki Haley, the former United Nations Ambassador and ex-Governor of South Carolina, garners 3% support.
Trailing Haley are Mike Pence himself, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, each with a 2% share of potential voters.
The poll reveals that the remaining eight listed candidates, declared or potential, each receive less than 2% backing.
As the former vice president sets his sights on the presidency, it remains to be seen how his candidacy will shake up the developing political landscape ahead of the 2024 primary race.
