The powerful media mogul has initiated a significant push to influence Donald Trump's choice for vice president.
According to Daily Mail, Rupert Murdoch is actively advocating for North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to be Donald Trump's running mate, actively opposing Senator J.D. Vance.
Rupert Murdoch, the 93-year-old billionaire, reportedly makes regular phone calls to Trump, advocating for Burgum. He has engaged not only in personal lobbying but also deployed staff and surrogates to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate to strengthen his case.
The media tycoon previously supported Ron DeSantis for the presidential nomination. However, after DeSantis' early exit from the race, Murdoch shifted his focus as Trump secured the Republican nomination.
Murdoch's U.S. publications have actively supported Burgum, highlighting his potential through various editorial endorsements. This includes favorable coverage from influential outlets like The Wall Street Journal and the New York Post, both of which have featured editorials praising Burgum.
Despite Murdoch’s strong push, his relationship with Trump has been fraught with tension. This was especially evident after the events of January 6 and a significant lawsuit that saw Murdoch's network paying substantial damages over election fraud claims.
A Fox News consultant expressed the view that Rupert Murdoch aims to reduce his past subservience to Trump. By pushing for Burgum, Murdoch potentially sets a new political course, diverging from the charged atmosphere fueled by Trump.
A Trump advisor remarked on the tactic, noting inconsistencies in media portrayal, "Through his media outlets, they’re running the same playbook against J.D. and in support of Burgums as they did against DJT and in support of DeSantis during the primary."
Murdoch's maneuvers suggest a dual agenda: not only influencing the upcoming election but possibly grooming Burgum for future presidential runs.
Trump is geared up to announce his vice-presidential pick at the upcoming Republican National Convention. Doug Burgum, J.D. Vance, Marco Rubio of Florida, and Tim Scott of South Carolina currently lead the shortlist of potential candidates. This lobbying by Murdoch represents a strategic effort to shape the future of the GOP and potentially the broader political landscape in the U.S.
The implications of Murdoch's campaign extend beyond mere election strategy. It highlights the significant impact media moguls can wield on political processes, subtly guiding public opinion and party politics through strategic endorsements and media coverage. Reflecting on Murdoch's long-term vision, a Fox News communications consultant commented, "Rupert has always viewed Trump as subservient to him. And it bothers him. They don’t want Trump on Fox, so they get Burgum on there groom him for the next four years, and make him president. That’s his way of ending Trumpism."
While Murdoch has left a lasting mark on global media and politics, his current campaign may redefine his legacy and perhaps recalibrate the direction of the Republican Party.
Rupert Murdoch's assertive campaign for Doug Burgum as Donald Trump's vice-presidential candidate underscores the intertwined dynamics of media power and political influence. Whether this will sway Trump's decision remains to be seen, but it certainly sets the stage for a pivotal moment at the Republican National Convention.
