Republican Ohio Senator JD Vance, who is rumored to be a vice presidential candidate, responded to critiques about his heritage from Democratic Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who is reportedly under consideration as a running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris.
On MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Beshear endorsed Vice President Harris and remarked on the differences in their origins, stating, “the American people need to know what a true Kentuckian is and looks like, because JD Vance is not one of us.”
Vance, born in Middletown, Ohio, with familial ties to eastern Kentucky, rebuked Beshear, a scion of a notable Kentucky political family, by highlighting the governor’s privileged background and inherited status.
Expressing his affection for eastern Kentucky, Vance responded to Beshear’s criticism by pointing out the irony of a governor who benefited from familial political connections questioning his origins.
Beshear reiterated his stance in an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, emphasizing Vance’s alleged lack of genuine ties to Kentucky and accusing him of exploiting the region for personal gain through his book, Hillbilly Elegy, which has faced backlash for perpetuating stereotypes about Appalachia.
While flattered by speculation surrounding his potential VP candidacy, Beshear clarified that he has not been formally contacted for vetting by Harris’ team. Other rumored candidates for the VP slot include Josh Shapiro, Roy Cooper, and Mark Kelly.
Vance, propelled into the political spotlight post his 2016 memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, has faced criticism for his portrayal of Appalachia. Despite asserting his familial ties to the region, some view his work as reinforcing negative stereotypes.
Notably, Vance’s roots lie in southwestern Ohio, but his extended family hails from Jackson, Kentucky, where he spent significant time during his upbringing.
During a campaign event in Middletown, Ohio, Vance echoed his commitment to the Midwest working class, promising a focus on American-made products and criticizing overseas military engagements.
In response, Beshear defended the hardworking heritage of eastern Kentuckians, condemning Vance’s portrayal of them as lazy and insensitive to their cultural contributions and struggles.
Further comments from both Vance’s campaign and Beshear’s office are awaited for additional context.
Update 07/22/24, 11:38 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information and background.