- Trump wipes out criticism of Vance: Visas don't matter
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump half himself to a half-hearted defense of his running mate J.D. Vance, downplaying his significance in the campaign. When asked about Vance's controversial comments on childless people, Trump told the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago, "He's very family-oriented. But that doesn't mean there's something wrong with not having a family." When questioned if Vance, with his lack of political experience, would be ready for the job from day one, Trump dodged the issue, stating, "Historically, the vice president has had no impact on the election."
Trump introduced Vance as his running mate at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in mid-July. However, Vance is currently facing a barrage of past remarks. The latest controversy: sexist comments about childless people. The father of three had previously referred to leading Democratic politicians, including Vice President Kamala Harris, as "childless cat ladies" who were unsatisfied with their lives. The clip resurfaced, spread quickly, and drew much criticism.
Vance's stance that childless people should have less say in a democracy has also drawn disapproval. Additionally, the Republican is struggling with low poll numbers. The Democratic opposition is attacking Vance for his lack of experience. At 39, Vance has only been in the Senate since January 2023 and has no prior government or extensive political background.
Trump stated he chose Vance as his running mate because he had risen from difficult circumstances. "He's created an amazing life for himself," said the former president. "I respect people for their success."
Overall, Trump played down the role of the vice-presidential candidate, saying there's only "two or three days" of excitement about who takes the role, "and then it dies down, and it's all about the president's election." Historically, he said, the selection of the vice president makes no difference in the election.
Despite the controversies surrounding J.D. Vance's past comments on childless individuals and his lack of extensive political experience, the Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump defended his choice as running mate, asserting that historically, the vice president's selection has minimal impact on the election. In the upcoming election, Vance will be facing scrutiny for his stance that childless people should have less influence in a democracy.
