Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance reiterated his stance on the 2020 election during a rally in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. When asked if he would definitively say that former President Donald Trump lost in 2020, Vance emphasized that he believed the election had serious issues and was not acceptable. He stopped short of explicitly stating that Trump had lost, instead alluding to the election being problematic.
Following the 2020 election, Vance initially acknowledged Trump's loss and Biden's victory. However, his recent comments suggest a shift in his position regarding the election outcome.
During the rally, Vance was also questioned about condemning the Capitol attacks incited by Trump. He condemned the riot but downplayed its significance compared to other pressing issues, such as financial struggles faced by individuals. Vance emphasized that he does not hold Trump responsible for the actions of a few individuals who engaged in violence during the Capitol riot.
He referenced a video released by Trump during the Capitol riot, where Trump urged his supporters to remain peaceful. Vance emphasized that any violent actions were the responsibility of the individuals involved, not Trump.
Vance's remarks reflect his continued reluctance to explicitly acknowledge Trump's defeat in the 2020 election and his nuanced stance on the Capitol riot. As the election season progresses, Vance's statements are likely to be scrutinized further in the context of his political positions and affiliations.
