JD Vance on Donald Trump
JD Vance's political trajectory is closely tied to his evolving relationship with Donald Trump, moving from a public critic to an ardent supporter and eventually his Vice President.
In 2016, Vance was openly critical of Trump's presidential bid, calling him "reprehensible" and aligning himself with the "never Trump guy" sentiment.
This position completely reversed by 2021, when Vance publicly endorsed Trump for his Senate run, apologized for his earlier criticisms, and began adopting Trump's policy stances, including advising him on personnel matters.
Context
JD Vance gained national prominence following his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, which provided analysis on the white working-class electorate that helped propel Donald Trump to victory in 2016.
Vance's shift from critic to loyalist has been a defining feature of his political career, with some alleging his change was motivated by a pursuit of political power and wealth after interacting with social elites post-memoir publication.
Timeline
- Vance was an outspoken critic of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, calling him 'reprehensible' and identifying as a 'never Trump guy'.
- After announcing his Senate candidacy, Vance publicly reversed course, announcing support for Trump, apologizing for past criticisms, and seeking an endorsement.
- Vance officially endorsed former President Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential primaries.
- Donald Trump announced JD Vance as his running mate for the 2024 presidential election.
Actions Taken
- Political EndorsementEndorsed Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential primaries.
- Vice Presidential NominationWas selected by Donald Trump as his running mate for the 2024 presidential election.
- Political AdviceAdvised Trump to fire all civil servants and replace them with Trump supporters.
Key Quotes
I think he was speaking for me—but I really didn't [discuss a national abortion ban veto].
I think he was speaking for me—but I really didn't.
Comparison
- Initial Stance (2016): Vance was an outspoken critic of Trump's candidacy, calling him 'reprehensible'.
- Current Stance (2024-Present): Vance is a prominent supporter and was selected as Trump's Vice President, suggesting strong political alignment.
Sources4
- JD Vance, Donald Trump's pick for VP, once called him 'reprehensible'
- JD Vance said he would not have certified the 2020 election if he were vice president
- Vance tells supporters 'don't do this fake outrage thing' after Trump cemetery controversy
- Trump says he didn't discuss national abortion ban veto with JD Vance
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.