On Sunday, Fox News host Maria Bartiromo interviewed Ohio Senator JD Vance regarding criticisms of his selection as former President Donald Trump’s running mate for the 2024 election. This announcement was made last month during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
Amid speculations that Trump may be reconsidering his vice presidential choice, which both he and his campaign have denied, Bartiromo questioned Vance directly. “Some people are saying you were the wrong pick for Trump’s running mate. What are you doing about it?” she asked.
Vance confidently responded, “My focus is on highlighting the contrast between us and [Vice President] Kamala Harris. People were better off during Trump’s presidency.” He acknowledged the pushback he faces from some members of the GOP, saying, “I view their criticism as a badge of honor. The media will attack those they perceive as a threat to their narrative, and I don’t come from insider circles.”
He added a personal touch by sharing his background. “I grew up in Middletown, Ohio, as a kid from a working-class family. I put myself through college with the Marine Corps, and now I’m Trump’s running mate. I think many Americans can relate to that journey.” Vance also took aim at the policies of the current administration, expressing dissatisfaction with their handling of the economy, immigration, and environmental issues.
Recently, Trump came to Vance’s defense during an interview on Fox & Friends, calling him a “fantastic” choice for vice president and downplaying concerns about the selection.
In response to reports of Trump wanting to reconsider his running mate, his communications director, Steven Cheung, firmly dismissed those claims.
Controversy Surrounding Vance
Vance has not only faced skepticism regarding his role but also some backlash from comments made during his 2021 Senate campaign. He previously stated on Tucker Carlson Tonight that the political landscape was influenced by “childless cat ladies” who, in his view, are disconnected from the realities of life in America.
He specified this perspective by referencing prominent figures like Kamala Harris and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as part of a trend in the Democratic Party. His remarks, while drawing attention, have sparked considerable debate about his views on family and political engagement.
In 2021, President Biden appointed Harris to tackle migration issues in Central America, yet she was not tasked with managing border security directly.