Senator and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance has come under fire for a "disqualifying" comment about the 2020 election, made during a recent rally in Pennsylvania. When asked by a reporter if he believed that former President Donald Trump lost to President Joe Biden in 2020, Vance responded, “No.” Despite the lack of credible evidence supporting claims of a stolen election, Trump and many of his allies have continued to push the narrative that the election was rigged.
Vance elaborated on his stance, stating, "I think there were serious problems in 2020. So, did Donald Trump lose the election? Not by the words I would use. But look, I really couldn't care less if you agree or disagree with me on this issue." Vance has often sidestepped the question, notably avoiding a direct answer during his October 1 debate with Democratic vice presidential nominee and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former senior communications official in the Trump administration, criticized Vance's refusal to acknowledge Trump’s loss during a CNN panel. She argued that Vance's stance should disqualify him from the vice presidency, suggesting that he only embraces election falsehoods to advance his political career. Griffin pointed out that publicly aligning with Trump's 2020 claims has become a "litmus test" for Republicans loyal to the former president.
"It should be disqualifying," Griffin remarked. "It reflects his character and integrity. I don't think anyone on this panel believes JD Vance genuinely thinks Trump won the election."
She continued by explaining that Vance’s stance aligns with Trump’s demand for loyalty, citing former Vice President Mike Pence’s absence from Trump’s ticket after certifying the 2020 election results in favor of Biden.
Griffin also speculated that Vance’s comments could have electoral consequences, noting that "disillusioned Republicans" may be growing weary of the ongoing falsehoods surrounding the 2020 election.
Democratic National Committee Rapid Response Director Alex Floyd weighed in, calling Vance’s remarks "pathetic" in a statement to Newsweek. "Donald Trump chose JD Vance as his running mate because he knew Vance would support his dangerous election denialism and baseless attacks on our democracy, no matter what," Floyd stated. "Voters are ready to remind Trump why he lost in 2020—again."
Vance’s views on Trump have shifted dramatically over the years. Once a staunch "never Trumper," Vance even questioned in 2016 whether Trump was "America’s Hitler." Now, as Trump’s 2024 running mate, his comments reflect a very different stance.
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