I agree with your analysis of Trump's surprising victory. His fellow republicans didn't expect it because they don't understand his charisma. I don't think he does either, he just thinks he's irresistible and that his critics are irrational. But no one in his party will be next in line. Being VP won't give bestow that on Vance, except procedurally if Trump croaks in office. No Republican all-star has Trump's weird Pied Piper quality, and he will never anoint a direct successor because that's not in his personality. Trump gives people his blessings to help them into subordinate positions, and that's all. When he's gone I think it will be a wild scramble, every man for himself - which with any luck will disorganize the party enough for a well chosen Democrat to win the next election.