JD Vance: 10 things to know about Trump’s running mate

As the 2024 presidential race heats up, all eyes are on JD Vance, Donald Trump’s newly announced running mate. A bestselling author, venture capitalist, and U.S. Senator, Vance’s rise to political prominence has been nothing short of remarkable.

Here are ten key things to know about Trump’s running mate:

1. Early Life and Education

James David Vance was born on August 2, 1984, in Middletown, Ohio, a once-thriving steel town. He faced a challenging upbringing marked by family instability and poverty. Despite these difficulties, Vance graduated from Ohio State University and went on to earn a law degree from Yale Law School, an achievement that set the stage for his future success.

2. Author of ‘Hillbilly Elegy’

Vance gained national recognition with his 2016 memoir, Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis. The book provides a personal look into the struggles of America’s white working class, particularly in Appalachia. It became a bestseller and was later adapted into a Netflix film directed by Ron Howard.

3. Military Service

Before attending college, Vance enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served in Iraq as a combat correspondent, an experience he credits with giving him discipline and perspective on his life and career.

4. Career in Venture Capital

After graduating from Yale, Vance worked in Silicon Valley as a principal at Mithril Capital, a venture capital firm co-founded by Peter Thiel. His work focused on identifying and investing in promising technology startups.

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5. Political Aspirations

Vance’s interest in politics became evident following the success of Hillbilly Elegy. He frequently appeared on news programs and wrote opinion pieces discussing issues affecting the working class. In 2022, he successfully ran for the U.S. Senate, representing Ohio as a Republican.

6. Populist Stance

Vance is known for his populist views, often emphasizing the need to address the economic and social challenges facing the American working class. He has been a vocal critic of both corporate and political elites, advocating for policies that he believes will benefit ordinary Americans.

7. Alliance with Donald Trump

Vance’s political rise was significantly bolstered by his alignment with Donald Trump. Initially critical of Trump, Vance later became a staunch supporter, aligning himself with Trump’s America First agenda. This alliance culminated in his selection as Trump’s running mate for the 2024 presidential election.

8. Family Life

Vance is married to Usha Chilukuri Vance, an Indian-American and fellow Yale Law School graduate. The couple has three children and resides in Cincinnati, Ohio.

9. Policy Focus

As a senator, Vance has focused on issues such as economic revitalization, combating the opioid crisis, and reforming education. He has also advocated for stricter immigration controls and has been vocal about the need to reduce America’s dependence on foreign manufacturing.

10. Controversies and Criticisms

Vance has not been without controversy. His shifting stance on Trump, from critic to supporter, has drawn scrutiny. Additionally, his views on social issues and immigration have sparked debate and criticism from various quarters. Nonetheless, Vance remains a significant figure in the Republican Party, known for his articulate defense of populist policies.