Written by Jacob Thompson.
On Monday afternoon, former President Donald Trump selected Ohio Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate, opting for a grassroots favorite over more experienced political figures. Trump, known for his dramatic flair, waited until the final moments to reveal his choice, keeping the public in suspense.
Trump announced his decision on Truth Social during the Republican convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “As Vice President, J.D. will continue to fight for our Constitution, stand with our Troops, and will do everything he can to help me MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN,” Trump wrote. He praised Vance’s background as a Marine, bestselling author, and businessman.
The Biden campaign wasted no time attacking Vance, focusing on his hardline stance on abortion and his perceived allegiance to billionaires and corporations.
Vance’s Rise to Prominence
J.D. Vance first gained national attention with his bestselling memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” published in 2016, the same year Trump was elected president. Though Vance has been a senator for less than two years, he has quickly become one of Trump’s most ardent supporters, particularly on issues of foreign policy, trade, and immigration.
Initially, Vance was a critic of Trump, famously tweeting in 2016, “My god what an idiot,” and did not vote for him. However, as he observed the elite institutions’ backlash against Trump’s presidency despite his accomplishments, Vance’s perspective shifted. He grew closer to Trump and his son, Donald Trump Jr.
Trump was impressed by Vance’s spirited appearances on Fox News and his recent weight loss. Last week, Donald Trump Jr. told DailyMail.com, “J.D. is a great and loyal guy who has become a genuine friend. His life story embodies the American dream, but he never forgets where he came from.”
Preparing for the Campaign Trail
The significance of Vance’s role has increased dramatically after an assassin’s bullet grazed Trump’s ear on Saturday. Vance must now be prepared to step into the top job at a moment’s notice.
Trump praised Vance’s successful business career and his focus on American workers and farmers, particularly in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio. Vance’s selection aims to energize Trump’s base and bring millennial enthusiasm to the campaign. His blue-collar Ohio roots are seen as crucial for winning over voters in the pivotal “blue wall” states.
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his support, stating, “President Trump needs a vice president with innovative ideas and the ability to articulate them to every single American voter, and Senator J.D. Vance fits that mold perfectly. It’s time to unite our nation and restore America’s greatness.”
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and advocate for Vance, called it “a great choice by Trump.” Insiders revealed that the other finalists were Senator Marco Rubio of Florida and Governor Doug Burgum of North Dakota. Despite media mogul Rupert Murdoch’s support for Burgum as a more moderate choice, betting markets had already favored Vance.
Following the announcement, Donald Trump Jr. lauded the “incredible patriots” Burgum and Rubio, while mocking Biden’s vice president, saying, “President Trump has one of the most dynamic, young leaders in the country in J.D. Vance.”
Our Take
Trump’s choice of J.D. Vance as his running mate reveals a strategic move aimed at consolidating support among his base while injecting fresh energy into the campaign. However, the decision also underscores a worrying trend of prioritizing loyalty over qualifications. Vance’s rapid rise and alignment with Trump’s agenda could indicate a future administration more focused on personal allegiance than public service. This approach risks further polarizing the nation and undermining the integrity of our democratic processes. The public deserves leaders who prioritize the common good and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
