J.D. Vance criticized President Joe Biden, took aim at the media, and praised Donald Trump’s courage on Wednesday. These remarks were part of his address to grassroots Republicans as he accepted his nomination for vice president.
At the Republican National Convention, where he appeared for the first time as Trump’s running mate, Vance commended Trump for his resilience after surviving an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania over the weekend.
“The difference between the media’s portrayal of President Trump and the man we all know was clear on Saturday,” Vance told the audience in Milwaukee.
Vance recalled his fear for Trump’s life when gunfire erupted, forcing Trump to the ground at the rally in Butler.
“And then, just a minute later, he stands up—after being shot—raises his fist, and shouts, ‘Fight! Fight! Fight!’”
While Vance didn’t specify who “they” were, he immediately blamed Democrats following the attack. Authorities are still investigating the assailant’s motive, with no indication of others being involved.
During the convention, Vance took the chance to promote Trump, highlighting the economic contrast between Trump’s presidency and Biden’s administration, which he claimed has made middle-class life increasingly difficult.
“Let’s remove him and bring Donald Trump back to the White House,” he urged.
Vance, who is set to take center stage at the convention, aims to help Trump make a remarkable return to the White House after his loss to Biden four years ago. If successful, the one-term senator would become one of the youngest and least experienced vice presidents in history.
The best-selling author’s current support for Trump starkly contrasts with his earlier criticism in 2016 when he was an outspoken “Never Trumper,” even comparing Trump to Adolf Hitler. However, Vance has since transformed into a strong advocate for Trump’s policies and won his endorsement in the 2022 Ohio Senate race.
Despite his fame from the memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” Vance remains relatively unknown to the broader public. His speech is expected to focus heavily on his personal story, connecting his experiences with those of ordinary Americans.
Already popular with party supporters, Vance received a warm welcome as he arrived at the convention with his wife, Usha, who is also scheduled to speak.
Around 50,000 Republicans have gathered in Milwaukee for the convention, where the recent shooting incident—resulting in one bystander’s death and a minor injury to Trump—has been a major topic. The event has emphasized party unity behind Trump, pushing aside controversies from his past scandals.
