Donald Trump has chosen JD Vance, the junior senator from Ohio and author of the bestselling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy”, as his running mate in the presidential race. This announcement, made on the first day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, highlights Vance’s remarkable political transformation over recent years.
Once a vocal critic of Trump, Vance had previously referred to him as “America’s Hitler” and “a total fraud.” However, Vance’s perspective shifted as he pursued a Senate seat in 2022, ultimately gaining Trump’s endorsement in a competitive Republican primary. Trump’s support was pivotal for Vance’s campaign, with Trump acknowledging Vance’s previous criticisms but still endorsing him.
Vance rose to prominence in 2016 with the publication of “Hillbilly Elegy”, which detailed his upbringing in southwestern Ohio and his journey to Yale Law School. The memoir, which was later adapted into a 2020 film starring Glenn Close and Amy Adams, provided insights into the lives of Americans affected by poverty and drug addiction, resonating with many who felt marginalized in the political landscape.
Following Trump’s 2016 victory, Vance became a notable conservative voice, often explaining Trump’s political appeal to puzzled audiences. Initially seen as an anti-Trump Republican, Vance’s stance shifted significantly when he entered the Senate race. He campaigned on hard-right proposals, including completing the US-Mexico border wall, and was accused of endorsing the “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory, which he suggested Democrats were using to change the electorate through immigration.
Vance’s campaign tactics proved successful, and he defeated Democrat Tim Ryan by six points in the 2022 election. Since joining Congress, Vance has been a staunch supporter of Trump. Following an assassination attempt on Trump, Vance accused Joe Biden of inciting the attack, stating that Biden’s rhetoric contributed directly to the incident.
As Trump’s running mate, Vance will have a broader platform to advocate for his and Trump’s political views, further solidifying his role within the Republican Party.