Since Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) was chosen as the Republican vice presidential nominee, comparisons have been drawn between President Joe Biden, 81, and Vance, 39, emphasizing that Biden has been in politics longer than Vance has been alive. In 2016, Donald Trump entered the presidency with no prior political experience, selecting seasoned politician Mike Pence as his running mate.
This election cycle is different. Vance, a freshman senator with just under 18 months in office, is an unconventional pick. As voter trust in government and career politicians diminishes, could a political outsider like Vance unify the Republican Party and appeal to moderates?
“Experience in Washington isn’t necessarily a recipe for success,” commented Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL).
“Our party has shifted away from the notion that everyone waits their turn. Now, it’s your turn,” said Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL).
Donalds argues that the expectation to pay dues in politics is outdated and contributes to the Democratic Party’s struggles. President Joe Biden, who initially ran on the promise of serving one term, now faces calls to step down due to concerns about his age and mental acuity.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), once considered for vice president, praised Vance as a solid choice.
“Think about the talent in our party that Donald Trump can choose from to complete his administration,” Rubio said. “And the Democrats don’t even know who their nominee is yet.”
Cammack highlighted the contrast between Vance and Biden’s extensive experience. “Biden spent 40 years in the Senate and hasn’t delivered on his promises.”
“J.D. Vance will be a great complement to the president,” stated Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR). “Vance’s powerful story and connection with Americans, especially in the Rust Belt, will be crucial for the November election.”
Donalds added that the Republican Party’s diversity and youth are due to abandoning the old political games of waiting one’s turn.
“The selection of Vance by Trump shows that our party no longer needs to groom people into fully-formed politicians,” Donalds said. “If you can do the job and excel, we want you. Period. Full stop.”
