Vice President JD Vance took center stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) 2025 in Oxon Hill, Maryland, on Thursday, making a direct appeal to young voters while touting the Trump administration’s “breakneck pace” in its first month in office.
Vance’s Message to Young Voters
During his address, Vance acknowledged the crucial role of young voters, particularly young men, in the 2024 election and emphasized the administration’s commitment to them.
“We need you, we recognize that we need you, and we’re fighting for you every single day,” he said.
He criticized modern cultural narratives, arguing that society unfairly suppresses traditional masculinity.
“Don’t let this broken culture tell you that you’re a bad person for being a man, for telling a joke, for having a beer with your friends, or for being competitive,” Vance stated.
He claimed that today’s culture encourages young men to abandon their families and suppress their natural instincts, a message that echoes the Trump campaign’s strategic outreach to young male voters ahead of the election.
Trump’s Gains Among Young Voters
Although President Joe Biden won the youth vote overall, Trump made significant inroads, especially among young men. The GOP’s focus on cultural issues, amplified through podcasts and social media, played a key role in narrowing the traditional Democratic advantage among younger demographics.
Standing Ovation for Vance’s Munich Remarks
Vance also reflected on his controversial speech at the Munich Security Conference, where he accused European leaders of censorship. His remarks drew mixed reactions globally, but at CPAC, he received a standing ovation.
“I’m glad you guys liked it—not everyone did,” he quipped.
Inflation, Economy & Administration’s Progress
Vance concluded by emphasizing the Trump administration’s rapid policy implementation, particularly its focus on tackling inflation—a key concern for voters.
“Easing inflation is a work in progress, but we’re making strides,” he assured the audience.
