JD Vance on Ezra Klein
JD Vance's engagement with Ezra Klein has largely been through Klein's critical analysis and interviews, rather than a direct, sustained public debate between the two figures.
Klein has characterized Vance as an actual case of "the left made me do this," suggesting that Vance's progressive critics unintentionally drove him to adopt his more regressive social and cultural stances.
Many observers noted that Klein extended a degree of charity toward Vance and his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, early on, which is now being re-examined in light of Vance's current political positions as Vice President.
Context
Ezra Klein is a prominent American commentator, New York Times columnist, and podcast host, often regarded as an articulate analyst from the progressive side of American politics.
Vance's early national prominence following his 2016 memoir made him a subject of significant media interest, including from figures like Klein, who interviewed him before his major political ascensions. The dynamic between the two is significant because Klein was an early figure in media discussing the white working-class disaffection Vance wrote about.
Timeline
- Ezra Klein interviewed JD Vance less than a month after Donald Trump's inauguration, featuring a Vance who had not yet fully embraced his current political persona or sought major office.
- Following Vance's selection as the Vice Presidential nominee, Klein's prior 2017 interview resurfaced for re-examination by commentators.
- Klein reportedly argued that Vance is an instance of someone whose views genuinely shifted due to anger at critics, suggesting Vance may have actually come to believe his current stances.
Key Quotes
Ezra Klein argues that JD Vance is an actual case of 'the left made me do this'.
I reread Hillbilly Elegy during the election. it was one of the eeriest. reading experiences I've ever had. because throughout that book JD Vance is predicting in the form of condemning. the person he is about to. become.
Criticism
Some commentators criticized Klein for giving Vance too much leeway or charity in early interviews, arguing the focus was on Vance as a 'quirky author' rather than a developing political operator.
One user suggested Klein's take that Vance became radicalized by his critics, rather than being overtly opportunistic, avoids acknowledging his own past uncritical embrace of Vance's early narrative.
Sources4
Ezra Klein Interviews JD Vance - 7 Years later : r/ezraklein
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.