On July 15, 2024, on the first day of the US Republican National Convention, former President Donald Trump officially announced Ohio Senator JD Vance as his vice presidential candidate. This choice attracted widespread attention and discuss. Vance's election not only made him a young vice presidential candidate, but also made Ohio once again gain attention on the American political stage.
Vance became the first 40-year-old elected vice president since Richard Nixon and the first Ohio native elected vice president since 1924.
Political analysts have pointed out that it is extremely unlikely that Trump will re-elect former Vice President Mike Pence, as the two men's differences over the future direction of the Republican Party have gradually alienated Pence. In addition, Pence was criticized by Trump during the January 6 attack. Even so, he still did not support Trump, further confirming the rift between the two. With his victory in the 2024 Super Tuesday primaries, Trump's presidential candidate status became more and more consolidated, and the opposition Nikki Haley also withdrew from the candidacy.
As time went on, Trump’s vice presidential pool narrowed to nine candidates. The final three finalists include JD Vance and two other candidates. Trump has shown obvious interest in Vance, especially in the context of considering the election results. Vance’s choice also highlights Trump’s election situation strategic considerations.
Trump said that he will announce his vice presidential candidate during the national convention, which undoubtedly arouses the expectations of the people across the country.
JD Vance, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, represents a new generation of political voice. His vice presidential nomination not only attracts the attention of young voters, but also strengthens Trump's image of a military background. However, even with these advantages, Vance faced negative reviews in the week following its announcement.
Vance's approval rating is only -6, making him the most unpopular vice presidential candidate since 1980.
Trump’s so-called loyalty is an important criterion for selecting his vice president. Vance attracted Trump in the Trump camp with his distinct stance and thoughts, especially his voice on certain controversial topics in contemporary society. Still, some of Vance's past comments have stoked divisiveness and controversy, making him unpopular with some voters.
As Vance's popularity among people across the country has declined, Trump's supporters have also questioned him, believing that Vance failed to expand the Republican Party's electoral base and exposed Trump to further challenges. While Vance's background is attractive to some voters, his rhetoric and policies could still create difficulties for Trump's electoral prospects.
"Does Trump's choice of vice president once again strengthen his dependence on his core supporters? What does this mean for the future of the entire Republican Party?"
In the next election battle, is it possible that the partnership of Trump and Vance will lead the Republican Party to make history again, or will it face a potential crisis?