Vance's Calculated Strategy of Outrageous Statements
JD Vance, the vice-president under Donald Trump, has been making a series of seemingly loony statements that some observers believe are part of a calculated strategy to position himself as Trump's successor. Despite his Ivy League education and serious demeanor, Vance has recently suggested that Pope Francis should be cautious in discussing theology, dismissed the Watergate scandal as no big deal, and criticized the Vatican's welcoming views on immigration. These comments, according to columnist Margaret Sullivan, are intended to signal to Trump's base that he shares their grievances and intolerance.
Appealing to the MAGA Base
Vance's remarks, including his infamous comment about "childless cat ladies" during the 2024 campaign and the false claim that Haitian-Americans were stealing pets in Springfield, Ohio, are not accidental. They serve to reinforce his alignment with Trump's divisive rhetoric. As former labor secretary Robert Reich noted, Vance resembles Trump in every way – he lies effortlessly, he's utterly without principle, and he's intent on gaining power – except that he's smarter and more ruthless than Trump.
Unpopularity and Ambition
Despite his efforts, Vance remains historically unpopular as a vice-president. According to CNN's Harry Enten, his popularity is "underwater," partly due to his involvement in international affairs like campaigning for Hungary's Viktor Orbán and representing the White House in the war with Iran. Most Americans prefer the administration to focus on domestic issues. Nevertheless, Vance's attention-getting utterances have a desperate quality, aiming to solidify his position as the obvious successor to Trump for the 2028 Republican nomination.
