In a shocking move, former President Donald Trump chose Senator JD Vance (R-OH) as his running mate during this week’s Republican National Convention. This bold decision thrusts Vance further onto the national stage, solidifying his position among America’s rising stars within the Grand Old Party ranks.
Who exactly is JD Vance? Born in Kentucky but raised partially in Ohio, Vance penned the bestselling memoir ‘Hillbilly Elegy’ back in 2016, detailing his tumultuous upbringing amidst poverty and domestic violence. His mother battled substance dependence; thus, much of his youth revolved around living under the guidance of his beloved maternal grandma (‘Mamaw’).
Before entering politics full-time, Vance enlisted in the United States Marine Corps following graduation. During his tenure, he took part in Operation Iraqi Freedom serving as Public Affairs Officer.
On the personal front, Vance tied knots with fellow Yale alumni-turned-lawyer Usha Chaudhary-Vance in 2014. Today, their nuclear unit consists of three adorable kids—Ewen, Vikek, and Mirabelle—and calls both Cincy’s affluent Eastern Walnut Hills district plus Northern VA’s poshest neighborhoods home sweet homes!
So when did Vance dive headfirst into politics? After capturing hearts nationwide through his literary debut, Vance entered electoral fray relatively recently—in 2022! That fateful election saw him snatch victory over ex-Democrat Representative Tim Ryan, securing himself a coveted US Senate spot representing Buckeye State interests.
Now let us rewind memory lanes… What kind of rapport exists between Vance and Trump? Interestingly enough, prior to seeking political glory, Vance had publicly lambasted then-candidate Trump labeling him everything from toxic to likening him to infamous historical figure Adolf Hitler (“America’s Hitler”). However, upon announcing candidacy for OH-SENATE22′, Vance underwent a drastic image makeover—a la carte menu-style deletion spree targeting anti-Trump social media posts ensued alongside praise showered towards POTUS45’s governance record. Fast-forward today—the once-vocal critic turned ardent supporter proudly stands shoulder-to-shoulder beside DJT as endorsed candidate extraordinaire!
Policy-wise, where does Vance land? Embodying modern-day right-wing populism dubbed the ‘New Right,’ Vance defies conventional party norms advocating protectionist stances vis-a-vis international commerce while opposing American involvement abroad especially concerning Russian-Ukrainian conflict zones. Additionally, our man champions safeguarding SocSec benefits amid proposed budget slashes.
Bipartisanship isn’t entirely alien either—he co-authored railroad security reform post-Eastern-Palestine-tragedy along liberal stalwart Sherrod Brown and collaborated with firebrand progressive Elizabeth Warren pushing accountability measures aimed squarely at banking sector bigwigs.
Will he be a good fit as Trump’s VP? Absolutely. Now, the question is whether America will agree.
