The selection of Ohio Senator J.D. Vance as a vice-presidential candidate by former U.S. President Donald Trump is a move that could have significant implications for American politics. Based on their past relationship, Trump’s previous policies, and Vance’s political career, various inferences can be made about the dynamics and policies of a potential Trump-Vance administration.[i]
Donald Trump’s presidency has left a lasting impact on American politics. Trump implemented radical changes, particularly in trade policies, immigration reforms, and foreign policy. He took strict measures on immigration by promoting the construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and escalated economic tensions with China by fueling trade disputes.
In foreign policy, Trump questioned relations with NATO allies and international agreements under the “America First” approach. These policies caused significant changes and debates both domestically and internationally, permanently influencing the direction of American politics. Such policies have laid a favorable groundwork for Trump to pursue a second term.
James David Vance first gained national recognition with his memoir “Hillbilly Elegy”, published in 2016. [ii] The book explains the challenges in the Appalachian region and the reasons behind Trump’s support in these areas. Vance’s book is considered an important resource for understanding the struggles of rural America and how these communities responded to Trump’s message. By capturing the lives of American conservatives in this way, Vance reached out to his voters, presenting himself as someone who has experienced the same challenges as the people.
Vance harshly criticized Trump during the 2016 presidential election. However, over time, his views on Trump’s performance during his presidency changed, and he became a figure supporting Trump’s policies. Vance, with Trump’s support, turned this endorsement into electoral success when he was elected to the Senate in 2022. Being selected as Trump’s vice-presidential candidate became the most significant turning point in Vance’s political career. [iii]
This new coalition between Trump and Vance may bring about several important dynamics:
- Political Continuity and Innovation: Trump’s past policies could merge with Vance’s new objectives. This indicates that Trump’s tough stance on immigration, trade, and foreign policy will continue. Vance’s young and dynamic profile could offer an updated version of these policies.
- Intra-party Relations and Strategy: Vance’s strong personal relationship with Trump will enhance the effectiveness of Trump’s policies. Vance’s potential to maintain Trump’s influence, especially in Midwestern states, will play an important role in the election campaign. However, the selection of two white men as vice president and president could create an imbalance in Trump’s relationships with various demographic groups.
- Political Debates and Repercussions: Vance’s past criticisms of Trump and subsequent alignment with him demonstrate how flexible a politician he is. This creates uncertainties about how the Trump-Vance coalition will take shape. Additionally, Vance’s criticism of the 2020 election results could bring discussions on election security and legality back into focus. In short, Vance may have to confront his past criticisms.
Domestic Policy and Public Policies: Vance is expected to continue Trump’s “America First” agenda, particularly in the Midwestern states. Vance’s labor and farmer-focused policies could increase Trump’s chances of reelection, especially in these regions.
In conclusion, the coming together of Trump and Vance could signify a return to continuity and conservative governance in American politics. Trump’s previous policies and Vance’s young, dynamic profile provide significant clues about how current policies might evolve and how new strategies might be shaped. However, the effectiveness of this coalition will depend on factors such as how the policies are implemented and public response. Therefore, the potential impact of the Trump-Vance alliance needs to be carefully monitored.
[i] “Trump picks Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, a once-fierce critic turned loyal ally, as his GOP running mate”, Associated Press, https://apnews.com/article/trump-vice-president-vance-rubio-burgum-rnc-6cc438a8370a21b2631f5a53b06b71d0, (Date Accessed: 19.08.2024).
[ii] “Trump’ın JD Vance’i başkan yardımcısı adayı seçme kararının arkasında ne var?”, BBC.NEWS, https://www.bbc.com/turkce/articles/c51y9v9enpzo, (Date Accessed: 19.08.2024).
[iii] Ibid.
