On the flip side, the GOP has also avoided selecting VP candidates who are losers in the presidential nomination process. They always prefer to select someone who was NOT a candidate in the current election cycle. I believe George H. W. Bush (1980) was the last person who was selected as a VP candidate after losing in the presidential primaries. This would weigh heavily against Nikki Haley even aside from all the other baggage she brings to the table.
I am aware they will try to force it but this is where Trump will have to show his chops about draining the swamp. He lets them force her on the ticket as VP is about the closest thing to a death warrant Trump could pick.
As a rule you are correct. I’m sure Pence was a party pick as were many of the awful picks Trump gets criticized for making. If they try to stick him with Haley l don’t think he will go for it. He knows the dreadful people he let the party force on him cost him dearly, l hope that is over.