Donald Trump has whittled down his short list of vice presidential picks down to five people — but doesn't think the decision will ultimately have much impact.
In an interview with
The Washington Post, the GOP presumptive nominee suggests he's leaning more toward a "political" than "military" running mate.
But in the end, it may not help much either way, he argues.
"History has said nobody ever helps," Trump tells the Post, using the example of Lyndon Johnson's selection as John F. Kennedy's running mate as the last vice presidential pick that really mattered.
"I've never seen anybody that's helped."
Trump tells the Post he has "five people, including the general" on his final list, referring to retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn. "I do like the military, but I do very much like the political."
"I will make my mind up over the next three to four days," he tells the newspaper. "In my mind, I have someone that would be really good."
According to the Post, four of the five are Flynn, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. The newspaper didn't name the "political person" who'd be a fifth possibility.
Trump contends a political VP might be more valuable than one with military experience because he says he doesn't need much help on the "military/national security front."
"I have such great respect for the general, but believe it or not that will be one of my strong suits," he tells the Post. "I was against the war in Iraq from the start."
"I don't need two anti-establishment people," Trump adds. "Someone respected by the establishment and liked by the establishment would be good for unification. I do like unification of the Republican Party."
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