The Federalist Makes a Strong Case for J.D. Vance As Trump's VP Pick

The Federalist has endorsed J.D. Vance (R-OH) as the ideal choice for former President Donald Trump's Vice President in the 2024 election. 

They argue that Vance, a military veteran and U.S. Senator from Ohio, embodies the values of the working class and has a strong understanding of Trump's political vision. Vance's political acumen and alignment with Trump on key issues, such as foreign policy and border security, make him a strong candidate. They add that Vance being on the ticket would bolster Trump's support in crucial Rust Belt states, such as Michigan and Wisconsin. 

The headline reads, "If Trump wants to win, he should run with J.D. Vance." Here is what part of the article written by Ned Ryun reads:

The Ohio Republican has proven himself time and time again as one of Trump’s strongest allies. He’s a ruthlessly effective messenger, especially on hostile networks, and would perform strongly against Kamala Harris in a debate. He’s stood up to the globalists who want America’s sons and daughters to fight other nations’ wars. He’s in lockstep with Trump on tariffs, trade, and economic policy. And he won’t surrender, as far too many Republicans have, on border security, illegal immigration, and protecting American workers.

I’ve watched Vance closely since he was elected. He’s stayed true to what he believes, even when it meant fighting the establishment of his own party, and hasn’t allowed Washington to change him. To put it differently, he has a spine — a rare virtue in Washington.

His political rise wasn’t easy either. When he announced his run for Senate, he faced long odds and a field of well-funded and well-known primary opponents. But Vance stood out, connected deeply with the voters, earned Trump’s endorsement, and won big. In the general election, Vance overcame the critics and an avalanche of cash from wealthy leftist donors to crush Democrat darling and former presidential candidate Tim Ryan, thanks in no small part to Vance’s discipline on the campaign trail and strong debate performances.

Vance is battle-tested, brilliant, and has proven he has what it takes. He would excel as a messenger for Trump’s agenda in the most critical swing states. If, God forbid, something were to happen to Donald Trump, he is the only vice-presidential contender who would continue Trump’s legacy rather than returning the GOP to the dark days of old. 

There are many pros to choosing Vance as VP, and although Trump has said he won't announce his vice presidential pick until the Republican National Convention, it seems like Vance, Gov. Doug Burgum (R-ND), and Dr. Ben Carson are atop the list of finalists. But then again, Trump could surprise everybody and choose someone who has not been mentioned at all as a VP option. 

Although there are many pros, there are some cons for Vance, including leaving his Senate seat vacant and risking a Democrat winning that seat. There are also his negative comments about Trump in 2016, which the mainstream media could continue to hammer up until the November election. The reality is that many people opposed Trump as the GOP nominee back then, but things change. Several of those critics have come around, finding common ground on policies, and are on board for another four years of a Trump presidency. 

Trump mentioned Vance's comments in April of 2022:

They appear to have cleared the air and are on good terms, especially since Vance is one of the front-runners to become VP. 

Putting the cons aside, as Ned Ryun highlighted, Vance is battle-tested. He is "smart, effective, and a true believer in policy." At the end of the day, what matters is where they stand on policy and, more importantly, that they don't waver from their stance.