- Trump wipes out criticism of Vance: Visas don't matter
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has half-heartedly defended his running mate J.D. Vance against criticism but also downplayed his significance in the campaign. Regarding Vance's controversial comments about childless people, Trump said at an appearance before the National Association of Black Journalists in Chicago, "He is very family-oriented. But that doesn't mean there's something wrong with not having a family." When asked if Vance, who has little political experience, would be ready for the job from day one, Trump evaded the question and stated, "Historically, the vice president has had no influence on the election."
Donald Trump's Challenging Candidate
Trump introduced Vance as his running mate at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in mid-July. However, Vance is currently facing backlash for various past remarks. The most notable: sexist comments about childless people. The father of three had referred to leading Democratic politicians, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who is now running for the White House herself, as "childless cat ladies" who are unhappy with their lives in a 2021 interview. The clip resurfaced after Vance's rise to Trump's running mate, spread rapidly, and drew much criticism.
Poor Poll Numbers for Vance
This was not Vance's only remark in this direction. His stance that childless people should have less say in a democracy has been expressed in various forms, which has not gone over well. Additionally, the Republican is struggling with poor poll numbers. The Democratic opposition is also 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 said he chose Vance as his running mate because he had risen from difficult circumstances. "He's created an amazing life for himself," the former president said. "I respect people for their success." Overall, however, Trump played down the role of the vice-presidential candidate, saying there is only "two or three days" of excitement about who will take on the role, "and then it dies down, and it's all about the election of the president."
Despite Trump's efforts to minimize Vance's role in the campaign, Republicans have been divided over the choice. Some party members argue that Vance's controversial remarks and lack of political experience could harm the Republican ticket.
In response to Vance's poor poll numbers and criticism, several high-profile Republicans have distanced themselves from the campaign, highlighting the potential risks of having such a divisive figure as the vice presidential candidate.
