Dollars and Pence

Unless something changes, it looks like Donald Trump has picked a running mate. The thing I find most interesting about him selecting Mike Pence is the change of style. He has been out of control and now he makes a conservative choice (no pun intended). Pence has strong ties to the Tea Party and Religious Right. He brings a wealth of experience that Trump sorely lacks. Given Trump’s gargantuan ego, I suspect he likes the idea that the low-key Pence won’t steal the limelight.
What really puzzles me is why Pence took the offer. Trump runs a one man show so he will have little power or influence. He will be called on to defend Trump’s indefensible statements. It also seems like a horrible career move. If he is reelected as governor in November he would be a credible presidential candidate in 2020 or 2024. He is in a tight race but stands a much better chance of being elected governor than vice president. If Trump loses, which I expect to happen, he will quickly go from hero to zero. Pence would also be tarnished.
Winston Churchill once said Russia is a “riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma”. I think the same could be said about politicians planning their careers.