From: allin
Donald Trump’s selection of JD Vance as his running mate for the Vice Presidency was a significant decision, surprising many and signaling a new direction for the Republican Party [01:05:01]. While some media outlets attributed the choice to influential figures like David Sachs, who was jokingly called the “Puppet Master” or “Architect” [00:00:08], Sachs clarified that Trump makes his own decisions after soliciting feedback from many people, stating he was “probably one of a thousand people or at least hundreds of people who offer my opinion” [01:06:06]. Sachs himself was a “big fan of JD Vance” [00:01:13].
Background and Qualities
JD Vance, at 39 years old, is noted for being half the age of Trump [00:44:11]. He represents a unique blend of characteristics:
- “Maga plus Tech”: Vance hails from a poor region of Appalachia, aligning with the “Forgotten man” or “Maga Heartland,” while also having a background in tech as a venture capitalist [00:42:01]. He worked at Peter Thiel’s Mithril Capital and Steve Case’s Revolution, later starting his own firm, Narya Capital [00:43:53]. Peter Thiel famously backed Vance with a $15 million Senate race donation [00:44:21].
- Military Service and Foreign Policy Evolution: Vance enlisted in the Marine Corps and served in the Iraq War in 2005 [00:42:45]. He later realized that the Iraq War and “forever wars” were a “gigantic mistake” [00:42:53]. This perspective makes him a proponent of avoiding unnecessary conflicts, contrasting with “neocons” and “warmongers” in the party [00:43:19].
- Personal Journey: His background, detailed in his book “Hillbilly Elegy,” describes coming from “less than nothing” with issues like addiction in his family [00:45:36]. He is seen as having navigated a difficult path to success and built strong relationships [00:45:09].
Rationale for Selection
The selection of JD Vance was seen as a strategic “legacy pick” by Trump, aiming to cement the “America First Maga message” for years to come [00:50:57]. His alignment with a “conservatism of the heart” that connects with everyday Americans is highlighted [00:52:55].
Contrasting with “Neocons”
The choice was seen as a rejection of “neocons” who lobbied against him [00:40:02]. Friend of the Pod Tucker Carlson reportedly advised Trump against picking a neocon, even linking it to potential assassination attempts, though this advice came before the actual attempt on Trump’s life [00:41:19].
RNC Speech and Public Perception
Vance’s speech at the Republican National Convention was described as “truly an incredible speech” [00:46:16].
- “Normal” Image: Attendees found him to be “so normal,” “happy,” and “competent,” someone you’d “hope is the manager” if you needed help at a fast-food restaurant [00:46:30]. This perceived normalcy is expected to make him “very hard to demonize” [00:47:03].
- Contrarian Views: In his speech, Vance went against mainstream opinion by stating that the Ukraine conflict was a “provoked war” by the Biden Administration due to “talk of NATO expansion” [00:39:33]. This initially caused murmurs but then applause from the audience [00:40:24]. He attacked “forever Wars” and “warmongers,” praising Trump for keeping the U.S. out of wars while demonstrating strength and negotiation skills [00:40:51].
- Populist Message: Vance’s speech resonated with a populist message, reminiscent of Pat Buchanan’s 1992 convention speech, highlighting the struggles of factory workers and communities hollowed out by job exports and the fentanyl crisis [00:50:23]. This message has not been a traditional part of the Republican Party, except for Trump’s influence [00:50:44].
Policy Stances
JD Vance’s policy positions align with the new direction of the Republican Party:
- Foreign Interventions: He “trashed the Iraq War” and “promised no more foreign interventions” [00:52:32].
- Big Tech: He has been “relatively positive towards Lena Khan,” head of the FTC, because she has been “willing to take on big Tech” monopolies [01:09:54]. While acknowledging Khan’s flaws, Vance appreciates her willingness to challenge Big Tech’s market power [01:11:06]. His main concern is the “freedom of speech issue” and censorship of conservatives on social platforms [01:12:09].
- Trade and Manufacturing: Vance’s stance aligns with a “populist party that actually represents the people,” moving away from the “Chamber of Commerce” type of Republicanism [00:50:06]. He rails “against policies that benefit multinational corporations at the expense of workers” [00:52:37]. While recognizing the importance of onshore manufacturing, some express concern that a nationalist and isolationist agenda could lead to inflation by limiting global trade and imposing tariffs [00:56:06].
- Pro-Union: Vance is also noted for being “pro-union” [00:49:43], reflecting a broader shift in the Republican platform.
Future Implications
Vance’s selection suggests a potential future “youthful cabinet of a lot of 30somethings and 40s” if Trump wins, as opposed to “60, 70, and 80-year-old career politicians” [00:49:07]. Though not having prior governing experience at scale, his supporters believe he can positively impact government accountability and focus on core objectives [00:55:19].
“Donald Trump choosing JD Vance was so important to cement this new vision of the Republican party. It was a legacy pick because it means that this America First Maga message is going to continue into the future many years into the future.” [00:50:50]
The selection of JD Vance is seen as a clear signal of the evolving nature of the Republican Party, emphasizing a “conservatism of the heart” and an “America First” agenda [00:52:55].