At the Republican National Convention, GOP voters expressed admiration for former President Donald Trump's selection of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate. The choice was met with praise, with supporters highlighting Vance's youth, energy, and resilience in the face of criticism. Being associated with Trump was seen as a positive attribute, as it indicated a readiness to withstand attacks.
Vance, aged 39, secured a seat in the U.S. Senate in 2022. His background as a Marine Corps combat correspondent and a graduate of Yale Law School has contributed to his rising political profile. The publication of his bestselling memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy' in 2016 further propelled him into the public eye, particularly for his reflections on his Appalachian upbringing.
One voter from Buffalo, New York, shared his long-standing admiration for Vance, citing his trust in Vance's commitment to the 'America First agenda' and his understanding of the concerns of the working class. Similarly, a supporter from Zanesville, Ohio, expressed satisfaction in seeing a 'hometown boy' like Vance chosen, emphasizing his grasp of the challenges facing average Americans and the economy.
Conversely, individuals who hold negative views of Trump were less enthusiastic about Vance's selection as VP. A voter from New Jersey expressed disinterest in Vance and any candidate endorsed by Trump, while another critic labeled Vance as a 'Trump clone' and contrasted him unfavorably with former Vice President Mike Pence, noting Pence's perceived divergence from Trump's vision for the Republican Party.
