Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton weigh V-P choices

Donald Trump wants a running mate who has what he lacks — political experience, while Hillary Clinton is putting a premium on diversity as she searches for a No. 2.

Yet the presidential rivals are running strikingly similar processes for tapping their vice-presidential picks: relying on prominent Washington lawyers to comb through the background of top contenders, seeking guidance from a small circle of trusted advisers and family members.

Mr Trump, a businessman who has never held public office, is seriously considering former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, New Jersey governor Chris Christie, Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions and Indiana governor Mike Pence.

“We’re vetting a lot of good people and we have a lot of interest in people that want to leave high positions and do this,” Mr Trump said Thursday.

Ms Clinton has said she wants a running mate who is well-prepared to become President. But Democrats say she’s also giving priority to diversity and has been weighing women, Hispanic and black candidates.

Top contenders for the Democratic ticket include Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren; housing and urban development secretary Julian Castro, a telegenic 41-year-old Hispanic politician; and Virginia Senator Tim Kaine.

New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, one of two black senators, was also being considered, though it’s unclear whether he is still in the running. Ms Clinton is expected to begin meeting with candidates herself next week.