President Trump has selected Ohio Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate and vice presidential candidate.
Trump made the announcement on Truth Social on Monday afternoon. “After careful consideration of many qualified individuals, I have chosen Senator J.D. Vance from Ohio as my vice-presidential candidate,” Trump wrote, highlighting Vance's academic background and business expertise.
The Republican ticket was finalized later in the day during the GOP's national convention, where Trump and Vance were officially nominated. Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha, received an enthusiastic reception, with chants of “J.D.!” filling the convention hall.
At 39, Vance would be one of the youngest vice presidents if the ticket wins in November. He is relatively new to politics, having won his Senate seat in 2022 after gaining fame as the author of the best-selling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy.” Vance's presence on the ticket is expected to strengthen Trump's appeal among working-class voters, especially in the Upper Midwest.
During the convention, Vance mingled with delegates to the tune of Merle Haggard's “America First,” which had to be played twice due to the length of his interactions. Delegates also modified their Trump signs to include Vance's name.
Vance has become a prominent advocate for Trump, defending him during his criminal trial in New York and frequently appearing on conservative and mainstream media. Supporters emphasize Vance's media presence and note that he would be the first former Marine to serve as vice president. Vance has also forged a close relationship with Donald Trump Jr.
Reflecting on his political journey, Vance wrote, “Many politicians lose touch with their constituents and their principles, but I am committed to staying true to my roots and my community.”
Vance's background includes growing up in a struggling steel mill town in Ohio, dealing with family issues related to drug addiction and poverty, experiences he detailed in his memoir. He served four years in the Marine Corps, including a deployment to Iraq, before earning degrees from Ohio State University and Yale Law School. Vance then worked at a major law firm and as a principal at Peter Thiel's investment firm in San Francisco.
