JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, is using scapegoating tactics in his campaign, notably against Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. While drawing from the intellectual ideas of René Girard, Vance’s actions have stoked tensions, resulting in increased threats to the immigrant population. This behavior highlights the political use of scapegoating to gain support among certain voter bases, even at the risk of inciting violence.
Vance’s Use of Scapegoating as a Political Tool
JD Vance’s recent rhetoric against Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, has drawn criticism from Democrats, who accuse him of scapegoating. Vance’s claims about immigrants causing local problems in the city align with a strategy of shifting blame for deeper societal issues. By focusing on immigration, Vance is diverting attention from the complex challenges facing Springfield and using a scapegoating mechanism as a political tool.
Vance’s Theoretical Background in Scapegoating
This tactic appears far from accidental. Vance has previously written about scapegoating, describing it as a “moral failing” used to project blame onto others. His writings drew from the theories of René Girard, a French theorist known for exploring the societal role of scapegoating in resolving conflicts. Vance’s connection to Girard’s work was facilitated by his relationship with Silicon Valley venture capitalist Peter Thiel, who introduced him to Girard’s ideas.
Girard’s Theory of Scapegoating Explained
René Girard’s theory of “mimetic desire” explains how humans develop desires based on what others want, leading to competition and conflict over limited resources. Societies often resolve these tensions through the “scapegoat mechanism,” in which a victim—usually an individual or a group—is blamed for societal ills and punished. Girard argued that the arrival of Christianity disrupted this dynamic, as Jesus, an innocent victim, revealed the true nature of scapegoating as a mask for violence.
Vance’s Personal Reflections on Girard
Vance himself has reflected deeply on Girard’s ideas. In a 2019 article about his conversion to Catholicism, Vance described how Christianity taught him that scapegoating was a reflection of human imperfection. At the time, Vance seemed to condemn this practice, recognizing it as harmful. However, in the political arena, he now appears to have reversed his stance, using scapegoating to appeal to voters’ fears.
The Dangerous Effects in Springfield, Ohio
In Springfield, Ohio, Vance’s rhetoric has heightened tensions. His repeated false claims that Haitian immigrants are harming local residents and abducting pets have contributed to a rise in bomb threats and violence against the immigrant community. While Vance has defended his comments as a means of drawing attention to the plight of Springfield residents, the consequences have been tangible, with local officials reporting increased harassment against Haitian immigrants.
Vance’s Political Calculations
Vance’s approach to scapegoating immigrants reflects a larger political strategy aimed at bolstering nationalistic sentiments. By casting blame on an external group, Vance is strengthening his appeal to his political base, emphasizing themes of community and national identity. However, critics argue that his rhetoric borders on dangerous populism, exacerbating social divisions rather than addressing real issues.
Girard’s Influence on Vance’s Nationalistic Rhetoric
Although Vance has not explicitly endorsed Christian nationalism, his views reflect an attachment to traditional communities and values. Vance frequently speaks of American identity in terms of place, family, and heritage, which critics argue can veer into “blood-and-soil” nationalism. Vance’s invocation of Girardian ideas suggests that he views scapegoating as a practical, if regrettable, political tool in modern mass society.
The Potential for Violence
Vance’s use of scapegoating rhetoric comes with serious risks. In Springfield, the immigrant community is already facing increased threats and violence as a result of his comments. Scholars of Girard warn that this kind of scapegoating, while effective in creating social cohesion, can easily lead to uncontrollable violence. By playing into fears and anxieties, Vance is walking a fine line between political strategy and incitement to harm.
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