At a recent GOP fundraiser in rural Coalinga, California, farmers showed their support for Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance, who has been labeled as “weird” by some critics. Recent comments from Democrats have categorized Vance, along with former President Trump, as unconventional due to their unique policy stands and behavior.
According to a report by Politico, around 150 supporters paid $3,300 each to attend the event, with photo opportunities fetching up to $25,000. Barbara Hallmeyer, a GOP delegate and former teacher, expressed her camaraderie with Vance, stating, “we’re weird like him.”
Despite the backlash Vance has faced regarding his past views on issues like abortion and comments about “childless cat ladies,” many attendees rallied in his defense. Farmer Steve Samra remarked that Vance isn’t anti-women and hinted at internal family shifts in political beliefs.
Republican strategists view Vance, author of Hillbilly Elegy, as a powerful asset in appealing to rural voters. Although California isn’t a Republican stronghold, certain rural areas remain staunchly conservative. Many local farmers are upset with Democrats for prioritizing environmental concerns over water access crucial for agriculture.
Co-host of the event, William Bourdeau from Harris Farms, described Central Valley farmers as “an endangered species.” Vance briefly touched on the critical water issues but indicated that solutions may need to stem more from state-level actions.
Vance also hinted at potential political maneuvers by the current administration, calling the expected rise of Kamala Harris a “coup d’etat,” stressing the importance of fundraising to counteract what he referred to as a misleading media narrative.
While Vance and Trump have their supporters in California, their prospects for winning the state in the upcoming election seem slim, with recent polls indicating a significant lead for Harris over Trump.