J.D. Vance, recently selected by Donald Trump as his running mate for the 2024 presidential election, has a history of sharply criticizing the former president. This article explores Vance’s past remarks, including a notable comparison of Trump to Hitler, and examines his subsequent shift to becoming a staunch Trump ally.
From “America’s Hitler” to Trump’s Running Mate: J.D. Vance’s Political Evolution
Before securing Trump’s endorsement and winning a Senate seat in 2022, J.D. Vance was openly critical of Trump. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Vance expressed his internal conflict regarding Trump, stating in writing that he wavered “between thinking Trump is a cynical a–hole like Nixon who wouldn’t be that bad (and might even prove useful) or that he’s America’s Hitler.” This stark comparison highlights the significant ideological shift Vance has undergone in recent years.
Vance’s Defense of Trump and Criticism of Pence Following January 6th
Vance’s transformation from Trump critic to ardent supporter is evident in his defense of Trump’s actions leading up to and during the January 6th Capitol attack. He criticized former Vice President Mike Pence’s role in certifying the 2020 election results and even questioned whether Pence’s life was truly in danger during the riot. Vance also linked political rhetoric to an assassination attempt against Trump, further solidifying his alignment with the former president.
Who is J.D. Vance? Background and Rise to Prominence
Prior to entering politics, Vance was a venture capitalist, author, and commentator. His memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” catapulted him to national recognition, detailing his upbringing in poverty and exploring the challenges faced by working-class communities in Appalachia. This background initially fueled his criticism of Trump, as he felt Trump lacked solutions to the problems faced by the people he represented.
Vance’s Shift in Stance and Apology for Past Criticisms
Vance’s public reversal on Trump began during his 2021 Senate campaign. He deleted previous critical tweets and apologized for his past remarks, stating he regretted being wrong about Trump and now considered him a “good president.” This change in stance coincided with Trump’s endorsement, which proved crucial in Vance’s electoral victory. Vance has since affirmed his belief that Trump was a great president and actively supports his bid for a second term.
Vance’s Political Positions and Fact-Check Record
As a senator, Vance has taken conservative positions on issues such as abortion and immigration. PolitiFact has assessed several of his claims, issuing mixed ratings ranging from Mostly True to Pants on Fire. Some notable fact-checks include his Mostly False claim that 100% of net job creation under the Biden administration went to foreign-born workers and his False assertion that a Ukraine aid package contained a hidden impeachment clause against Trump.
Conclusion: A Dramatic Political Transformation
J.D. Vance’s journey from harsh Trump critic to vice presidential running mate underscores a significant political transformation. While his past comparison of Trump to Hitler remains a stark reminder of his previous views, his current unwavering support for the former president defines his present political identity. This evolution raises questions about political authenticity and the role of personal ambition in shaping political alliances.
