JD Vance Faces Backlash Amid Rising Criticism and Controversy
Ohio Senator JD Vance, recently named as Donald Trump’s running mate, has had a tumultuous week that has left many Republicans frustrated and concerned. The controversy began after old clips resurfaced showing Vance making inflammatory remarks, including calling some Democrats “childless cat ladies” and suggesting that parents should have more political power than non-parents.
Resurfaced Comments and Political Fallout
Vance’s problematic week coincided with the rise of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has broken fundraising records and is set to receive the Democratic nomination after President Joe Biden exited the race. Harris’s campaign, which emphasizes the slogan “we’re not going back,” has created a stark contrast with the Trump-Vance ticket. This has amplified Republican concerns, with some party members expressing disappointment in Trump’s choice of running mate.
Arizona Republican operative Chuck Coughlin remarked, “Nothing like a baptism by fire,” highlighting the difficult situation Vance has faced. Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro questioned Trump’s decision, stating, “If you had a time machine, if you go back two weeks, would [Trump] have picked JD Vance again? I doubt it.”
Polls and Public Perception
Polls suggest that attacks on Vance are beginning to take a toll. Vance averages a net favorability rating of negative 5 percent across all polls, lower than any vice-presidential nominee in history. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist College poll found that 28 percent of registered voters have a favorable view of Vance, while 31 percent view him unfavorably. Forty-one percent were unsure or had not heard of him.
A House Republican lawmaker criticized the lack of support for Vance among Senate colleagues, emphasizing the absence of endorsement beyond Senator Mike Lee.
Criticism from Within and Beyond
Since Harris launched her campaign, Democrats have aggressively targeted Vance. The Harris campaign issued a statement mocking Vance’s comments, titled “Happy World IVF Day To Everyone Except JD Vance.” Even actress Jennifer Aniston weighed in, criticizing Vance’s stance on IVF.
Adding to Vance’s troubles, he has been linked to controversial figures like Kevin Roberts, the president of the Heritage Foundation, who advocates for a “second American revolution.” Vance authored the foreword to Roberts’ book, causing further backlash.
Republican Strategy and Future Prospects
Despite the controversies, Vance’s spokesperson pointed to successful rallies and fundraising events. However, experts argue that Vance was not a strategic pick to gain new constituencies but was chosen for his alignment with Trump’s views.
Republican political strategist Joshua Novotney noted, “Vance was not a political pick. He was chosen as someone who Trump trusted and wanted to serve with.” However, other Republican contenders have criticized Vance’s lack of connection to the communities he claims to represent.
Despite a difficult week, Trump has stood by his choice, stating that Vance’s support for the working class was a significant factor in his selection. Yet, strategists warn that Vance’s controversial remarks and associations may hinder his ability to expand the Republican base.
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