MIKE PENCE/TRUMP PEOPLE: “Nick Ayers could almost be confused for a college fraternity brother as he flashes a broad grin in a selfie taken with Mike Pence just moments after the Indiana governor was named Donald Trump’s running mate. In fact, the baby-faced campaign strategist in the white undershirt had a pivotal role in Trump’s selection of Pence in 2016. And two years later, Ayers’ bond with Pence is stronger than ever, as are his ties to the president. A seasoned campaign veteran at age 36, Ayers is emerging as a leading contender to replace White House chief of staff John Kelly, whose departure has long been the subject of speculation. If selected, Ayers would return a political mind to the role as Trump’s presidency enters a new, more perilous phase in which he fights for re-election while fending off new oversight efforts from a Democratic House.”
–The Associated Press, “Political ‘Veteran’ at Age 36 Eyed for Trump Chief of Staff,” The New York Times online, November 16, 2018