US Elections 2024: Who is JD Vance, the likely next Vice President of the US?

US elections 2024: JD Vance, author of Hillbilly Elegy and current US Senator from Ohio, is in the spotlight as Donald Trump’s running mate for the 2024 election. Known for his rapid political rise, Vance’s journey from an economically struggling background to becoming a senator has shaped his approach to policy and the issues he prioritises.

How Hillbilly Elegy defined Vance as a voice for the working class

Born into a working-class family in Middletown, Ohio, Vance experienced firsthand the challenges of poverty, family instability, and the impact of economic decline on rural America. His 2016 memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, which became a bestseller and was later adapted into a Netflix film, portrays the struggles of families in Appalachia. The book positioned Vance as an informal commentator on the challenges faced by America’s white working class and as a cultural voice for the “forgotten” American regions hit hardest by economic shifts.

How did JD Vance go from Trump critic to key ally?

Though he initially criticised Donald Trump in 2016, Vance later aligned himself with Trump’s policy perspectives, embracing an "America First" ideology. With Trump’s endorsement, Vance won his Senate seat in Ohio in 2022, marking his entry into formal politics. His time in the Senate focused on economic nationalism and a conservative agenda. Vance’s rapid shift in political alliances from vocal Trump critic to staunch ally has sparked criticism about his consistency but has solidified his support amongst Trump’s base.

In the Senate, Vance has advocated for policies such as reduced foreign intervention, tighter immigration controls, and support for American manufacturing. His foreign policy stance is particularly controversial within the GOP, as his isolationist perspective diverges from the more interventionist views of some Republicans. Vance has argued that US resources are better spent addressing domestic issues, a viewpoint that has been both praised for its focus on America First and criticised as isolationist.

Vance has also sparked controversy with his social views. Comments he made in a 2021 interview criticising what he termed “childless elites” resurfaced during the 2024 campaign and were widely condemned. Critics argue that these statements, which targeted leaders without children, alienate a major portion of voters, including childless women and some within his own party. This backlash highlights a key challenge for Vance in balancing the appeal to his base with the broader acceptance needed for a national role.

Why Is Vance’s populist background an asset?

Vance’s personal story as a self-made success from Appalachia aligns well with Trump’s populist appeal, resonating with working- and middle-class voters. His position as a conservative outsider and his connection to Ohio, which is a crucial swing state, makes him a strategic asset for the Trump campaign. However, his limited experience and evolving political stance could prove challenging if he assumes office as Vice President.