Despite having criticized Donald Trump prior to leaving the race, he endorsed Trump on February 26, 2016. On May 9, 2016, Trump named Christie to head up a transition team in the event of a Trump presidency. He soon emerged as a major power with the Trump campaign. It was then announced on July 12, 2016 that Trump had narrowed down his vice presidential shortlist to three candidates, including Christie. Mike Pence eventually became Trump's running mate.