J.D. Vance Learns What Mike Pence Already Knows

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This article examines how J.D. Vance, the Republican vice presidential candidate in 2024, is learning the hard way the lessons that Mike Pence learned a decade earlier when he became Trump's running mate. Vance, who had previously criticized Trump, has had to compromise his own political views and principles to align with the former president's agenda, particularly on foreign policy issues like the ongoing war with Iran. The article suggests that Vance's ambition may have blinded him to Pence's experience, and that he is now facing the consequences of his Faustian bargain.

Why it matters

This story highlights the challenges and compromises that politicians face when aligning themselves with a divisive and unpredictable figure like Donald Trump. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential costs of political ambition and the importance of maintaining one's principles in the face of pressure to conform. The article also explores the broader implications of Trump's foreign policy decisions and how they are impacting the political fortunes of his allies.

The details

The article draws parallels between Vance's experience and that of former Vice President Mike Pence, who also had to defend Trump's actions and policies despite their conflicting with his own conservative values. Vance, who had previously criticized Trump, has had to backtrack on his opposition to foreign intervention as the Trump administration has launched a war with Iran. The article suggests that Vance's political ambition may have blinded him to the lessons of Pence's experience, and that he is now facing the consequences of his decision to align himself with Trump.

• In October 2016, Pence reluctantly stood by Trump after the release of the 'Access Hollywood' tape.
• During Trump's first term, Vance's opposition to foreign intervention aligned with the president's image, but now clashes with Trump's 'imperial ambitions'.
• Last week, when Trump spoke in Vance's home region, the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, received gushing acclaim from the president, while Vance got 'short shrift'.

What they’re saying

What’s next

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