James David Vance, 39, now Donald Trump’s running mate, represents a political metamorphosis (or about-face) from a bitter critic to a staunch defender of the former Republican president. A military man and best-selling author, elected from Ohio, he quickly rose to prominence in Congress by championing Trump’s favorite themes: anti-immigration and economic protectionism. His conversion to Trumpism contrasts with his past harsh criticism of the billionaire, once calling him “an idiot” and “harmful,” and even comparing him to “America’s Hitler.”
From “Anyone But Trump” to MAGA
An outspoken Christian, he has been outspoken in his criticism of the Biden administration, denouncing the legal attacks on Trump as a threat to American democracy. Vance has undergone a significant political transformation, initially being a prominent member of the “Never Trump” movement during the 2016 election. He later embraced Trump’s agenda, securing the former president’s endorsement in the 2022 Ohio Republican primary. Beyond politics, Vance is a venture capitalist and the author of the best-selling book “Hillbilly Elegy.” His experience in Silicon Valley and success as a writer enrich his public persona.
He doesn’t believe in the results of the 2020 election
JD Vance has made his mark in Republican circles with his doubts about former Vice President Mike Pence’s actions during the certification of the results of the 2020 presidential election. This stance has reinforced his image as an outspoken and controversial political figure, ready to defend his beliefs even against the dominant opinion within his party, particularly on the legitimacy of the election results.
As a testament to his loyalty, Vance openly supported Trump during his trial for payments to pornography star Stormy Daniel, while also becoming a vocal advocate on media platforms such as Fox News and in interviews with Donald Trump Jr. on his podcast. In Congress, he has strongly opposed increased foreign aid, particularly in the context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, aligning himself with the isolationist tendencies prevalent within the Republican Party.
An “extremist anti-abortionist”
J.D. Vance has often highlighted his Christian faith as a moral and political compass. He has regularly invoked his religion to guide his positions on various societal and political issues. In speeches and interviews, Vance has emphasized the importance of his faith in his personal life and in his political decision-making.
When Donald Trump’s running mate was announced, his opponent Joe Biden reacted strongly: “He and Trump want to raise taxes on middle-class households while favoring tax cuts for the wealthy,” calling the Ohio senator an extremist who “denies the outcome of the 2020 election, supports a nationwide ban on abortion,” he added on his X account (formerly Twitter).
Source: www.20minutes.fr
