Senator JD Vance, the chosen running mate of former President Donald Trump for the 2024 Presidential race, emphasized his commitment to the working class during his acceptance speech for the Republican Party’s vice-presidential nomination. Speaking at the GOP convention, Vance promised to be a vice president who “never forgets” his roots.
In his speech, delivered two days after Trump named him as his running mate, Vance portrayed the convention as a “celebration of what America once was, and with God’s grace, what it will soon be again.” He highlighted the importance of preserving the American experiment and charting a new path for future generations.
Reflecting on his upbringing in a “small town where people spoke their minds,” Vance described the Republican Party as united in its love for the country and committed to free speech and the open exchange of ideas. He contrasted his background with President Biden’s long political career, criticizing Biden for policies harmed American middle-class jobs and contributed to military conflicts.
Vance also addressed economic issues, pointing to what he termed as “Joe Biden’s inflation crisis,” which has made basic necessities unaffordable for many Americans. He asserted that under Trump’s vision, the focus would shift from catering to Wall Street to prioritizing the needs of American workers.
The convention’s commencement followed an attempted assassination on Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania, an incident that Vance used to highlight Trump’s resilience and commitment to the country.
Vance’s speech included a heartfelt tribute to his mother, who was present in the audience. He recounted his journey from a challenging upbringing to his current position, underscoring his connection to the working-class struggles and values.
Once a critic of Trump, Vance has become a staunch supporter, backing Trump’s policies and vision for America. His selection as Trump’s running mate aligns him closely with the former president’s America First agenda, positioning him as a prominent figure in the MAGA movement.