As Donald Trump prepares to announce his running mate at the upcoming Republican convention, potential candidates are eager to secure the position. Among the contenders is JD Vance, one of Trump’s staunchest supporters. Recently, Vance referred to Donald Trump Jr. as one of the “best” individuals he had encountered in politics, sparking significant backlash.
Vance’s comments came through a post on X (formerly Twitter), where he shared a news article praising Trump Jr. for continuing his father’s MAGA legacy. In his post, Vance wrote, “Don is one of the best people I’ve met in politics. He genuinely believes in America First and works his ass off to make it a reality.” This statement quickly drew criticism, with many accusing Vance of trying to ingratiate himself with the Trump family to boost his chances of being selected as Trump’s running mate, as reported by HuffPost.
Critics were vocal in their disapproval. One user commented, “This is the most intense suck-up I’ve ever seen. If you want to be VP that much, it’s a sign you shouldn’t be the pick.” Another echoed this sentiment, saying, “Nothing makes you seem like you are fit for leadership quite like sucking up to the boss’s son in hopes of getting the VP slot on a losing ticket.”
The backlash continued, with one individual remarking, “God damn, dude. Have some dignity,” while another sarcastically added, “‘Pick me! Pick me for vice president! Please! Please! Pick me!’ – J.D. Vance.” Many users disagreed with Vance’s praise for Trump Jr., with one person stating, “No, he’s not. He and his family had a foundation that was dissolved because they used the money on themselves.
How bad do you have to be to do that? He’s not interested in America First, he, like his father, cares only about themselves and money. They have no interest in governing.” Another critic highlighted Vance’s change in stance, saying, “This dude went from truthfully calling out Trump to one of his biggest sycophants in quick fashion. Not a cult at all, right?”
In a recent appearance on Fox & Friends, Vance addressed the speculation about his potential vice-presidential candidacy. Despite the growing attention, Vance insisted that he was not actively seeking the position. “My attitude towards it is, if it comes to me, great. But it’s not something I’m going to lobby for. I don’t think that’s the right attitude to take towards it, and you know maybe, Trump respects that. Maybe he doesn’t, but that’s ultimately his call,” Vance stated, as reported by The Hill.
He further clarified that he had not discussed the matter with Trump, saying, “Look, it’s ultimately Donald Trump’s decision. There are a lot of talented people to pick from. And look, I’m glad it’s not my decision because there are so many good people. But as I’ve said to other people, I have not talked to Donald Trump about it. I’m very interested in helping him out whatever that looks like.”
JD Vance’s transformation from a vocal Trump critic to a prominent supporter has been notable, and his recent praise for Trump Jr. has only intensified the scrutiny surrounding his political ambitions.