Top Points:
Championing the Forgotten American Heartland: JD Vance accepted the Republican vice-presidential nomination by emphasizing his commitment to representing the overlooked regions of America. He highlighted his own humble beginnings and praised the talent and grit of Middle America, particularly the Midwest states crucial to the Republican base.
Personal and Relatable Story: Vance shared his personal story, chronicled in his memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” which resonated deeply with the audience. Raised by his grandmother in Ohio, overcoming his mother’s addiction, and achieving success, his narrative underscores the American dream. His introduction by his wife Usha, who comes from an immigrant background, further emphasized this theme.
Strong Stance on Policy and Immigration: Vance took a tough stance on foreign policy and immigration, advocating for America’s interests. He criticized high housing prices, attributing them to Wall Street and illegal immigration, and insisted that America welcomes immigrants on its terms. His speech also included sharp criticisms of President Biden and the Democrats, while calling for constructive debates within the Republican Party to find the best solutions.
Full Report:
‘The American heartland is full of talent and grit,’ the Ohio senator told attendees at the Republican National Convention.
MILWAUKEE—Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) officially accepted the Republican Party’s vice-presidential nomination on July 17, vowing to be a voice for the overlooked regions of America.
“I will be a vice president who never forgets where he came from,” the former venture capitalist and lawyer from Middletown, Ohio, declared to the crowd at the Republican National Convention, a day before former President Donald Trump’s anticipated speech.
Vance praised his running mate’s resilience, especially after the recent attempt on Trump's life in Pennsylvania.
“President Trump flew to Milwaukee and got back to work!” Vance exclaimed.
Raised by his late grandmother, “Mamaw,” in Middletown, Ohio, Vance described her as a complex character: deeply religious yet notorious for her colorful language.
“She could make a sailor blush,” Vance shared, recalling how he discovered 19 loaded handguns hidden around her house after her death. He grew up under her care as his mother battled drug addiction and his father had left when he was a toddler.
In a heartfelt moment, Vance introduced his now-sober mother, Beverly, who stood beside House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) in the audience. Vance’s story, chronicled in his memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” was adapted into a Netflix film starring Glenn Close and Amy Adams.
Vance was introduced by his wife, Usha, an attorney from a different background. The daughter of Indian immigrant scientists, Usha met JD at Yale Law School. The couple, who have three children, represent the American dream.
“That JD and I could meet at all, let alone fall in love and marry, is a testament to this great country,” Usha Vance said in her speech.
Vance emphasized America’s welcome to immigrants but insisted it should be “on our terms.”
Reflecting on American identity, he stated, “America is more than an idea; it is a group of people with a shared history and a common future. It is, in short, a nation.”
He criticized high housing prices, attributing them to Wall Street and illegal immigration, and defended Middle America, particularly the Midwest states that are crucial to the Republican base.
“There still is so much talent and grit in the American heartland,” Vance said.
Adopting a tough stance on foreign policy, Vance said, “When we punch, we’re gonna punch hard,” highlighting Trump’s actions against ISIS.
While criticizing President Biden and the Democrats, Vance also showed a willingness to engage with different perspectives.
“Sometimes I persuade my colleagues, and sometimes, they persuade me,” he said, urging Republicans to debate ideas and find the best solutions.
Earlier, progressive commentator Cenk Uygur suggested that Vance’s populism might not be entirely disingenuous. Vance acknowledged Trump’s influence in changing his views, admitting he was wrong about the former president.
In a Fox News interview, Vance said, “I think he was a good president, I think he made a lot of good decisions for people, and I think he took a lot of flak.”
The Biden-Harris campaign criticized Vance’s candidacy, linking it to the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025” and questioning his qualifications. However, Ohio Republicans expressed pride in Vance’s rise, celebrating his story as a testament to American values.
“He is bringing Butler County values to Washington: family, faith, hard work,” said Ohio Sen. George Lang. Butler County Sheriff Rick Jones added, “He had a terrible, tough, hard upbringing—and he survived.”
The Ohio delegation chanted “Mamaw!” during Vance’s speech, reflecting the personal connection many feel with his story. Gov. Mike DeWine praised Vance’s appeal, believing it transcends politics and resonates with Americans in battleground states.
Original Story by Nathan Worcester and Janice Hisle, The Epoch Times
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