A storm of discontent is brewing among House Republicans over former President Trump’s controversial choice of Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) as his vice presidential running mate. The backlash is stark and unforgiving, with insiders fearing that Vance’s selection could spell disaster for the GOP’s chances in November.
In candid conversations with The Hill, several Republicans, speaking on condition of anonymity, voiced sharp criticism of Vance’s nomination, condemning it as a strategic blunder that could alienate critical voters and sabotage the party’s electoral prospects. Their grievances center on Vance’s radical foreign policy stance, lack of substantial experience, and his failure to broaden the Republican base beyond Trump’s loyalists.
While Vance retains fervent support from hard-line conservatives and the House Freedom Caucus, who appreciate his populist, America First ideology, a significant faction within the party is sounding alarm bells. Veteran lawmakers, moderates, and Reagan-era conservatives, who champion a robust foreign policy and broader appeal, are voicing deep dissatisfaction.
“He was the worst choice of all the options. It was so bad I didn’t even think it was possible,” one House Republican said. “Anti-Ukraine, more of a populist. He adds nothing to the Trump ticket. He energizes the same people that love Trump.”
Another GOP lawmaker was even more emphatic: “I think if you were to ask many people around this building, 9 out of 10 on our side would say he’s the wrong pick. He’s the only person who can do serious damage.”
A third Republican, highlighting a rift within the party, warned that if Trump fails to secure a victory against Vice President Harris, Vance’s selection will be held accountable.
“The prevailing sentiment is if Trump loses, [it’s] because of this pick. It doesn’t help,” the lawmaker said.
The unease has intensified following President Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race and his endorsement of Harris. Democrats are rallying around the first Black and Asian American woman on a major party ticket, energizing their base and drastically altering the political landscape. This shift has heightened concerns among Republicans who were hoping for a more diverse and unifying ticket.
“I was concerned the whole time, but now it’s really concerning,” admitted a fourth House Republican. “It doesn’t make it any easier.”
As the GOP grapples with the fallout from Trump’s vice presidential choice, the party faces mounting pressure to reassess its strategy and reconsider its path forward in a rapidly evolving electoral environment.
