The next Cafe Society on May 17 will discuss “Who Donald Trump will select as his running mate.” The group couldn’t pick a timelier topic, and certainly one that generates considerable interest across the nation.

These informal weekly discussions are held from 8:30 to 10 a.m in the Rumsey Room of the Shepherd University Student Center each Tuesday morning. Pre-registration is not required and there are no fees or charges. They will continue on an informal basis throughout the summer.

Since the Trump campaign to date has consistently broken new ground in terms of traditional methods of political power brokerage, there is no reason why we can’t expect more of the same when it comes to determining who the Vice Presidential candidate will be.

Facilitator Mike Austin shared, “Donald Trump has a challenging job ahead of him to continue capturing media coverage and pursuing his candidacy without significant assistance from the Republican Party or its more traditional electoral machinery. The selection of his running mate looms large as he maneuvers to co-opt the Republican hierarchy and cherry pick specific resources without being tied to the traditional party image or legacy. Thus the selection of his running mate will involve difficult tactical as well as strategic decisions. So rather than simply have an active discussion on next Tuesday morning, society participants will engage in role playing putting themselves in Trump’s shoes to select the candidate who will help the most in winning the election and prove to be an asset during the life of his administration.”

Austin added, “It would be interesting to identify the capabilities or traits that Trump will be looking for to get someone that could be seen and not heard, visible only when needed to broker a deal with the Congress, plug a leaky political hole somewhere, or do damage control wherever needed, particularly in international fora with allies and trading partners — sort of like an ambassador with portfolio, but without baggage. To be successful, and survive, such an individual will have to be fast on his or her feet and possess considerable skill in working with Capitol Hill and our complex national security machinery.”

Those with suggestions for future topics or who want more information should contact Austin at 304-876-0598 or michael. austin@frontiernet.net.