Vice President J.D. Vance’s Speech at AmericaFest
During his address at Turning Point Action’s AmericaFest, Vice President J.D. Vance did not make a formal announcement regarding a presidential run in 2028, but he dropped several hints indicating his desire to carry on the movement initiated by former President Trump.
One significant moment came when Vance discussed overcoming a depressive episode following the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. He shared how he spent sleepless nights delving into conspiracy theories to comprehend the tragedy of his friend’s death.
“What saved me was not lying to myself, but accepting the reality of the fight that we’re in,” Vance remarked, describing Kirk’s passing as a harsh wake-up call. He emphasized that both the narrative of Christian faith and that of the United States involve profound loss followed by greater victories.
The vice president served as the closing speaker for a four-day conference that attracted around 30,000 conservative activists to Phoenix, Arizona. Erika Kirk, who succeeded her late husband as CEO of Turning Point USA, opened the event with an endorsement for Vance’s potential 2028 candidacy.
Kirk expressed her commitment to ensuring Vance is elected in 2028, referencing her husband’s belief that he wanted Vance to follow Trump as president. The vice president spoke about upholding Kirk’s legacy by integrating Christian values into Republican politics and policies.
“A true Christian politics cannot just focus on protecting the unborn or promoting family values; it must encompass our complete understanding of government,” he stated while providing examples such as advocating for dignified work conditions and affordable healthcare for all citizens.
Vance expressed his longing for Kirk’s wisdom and reiterated that “politics is not a dress rehearsal.” He urged attendees to commit to fighting for what Kirk stood for: closed borders, safe communities, good jobs, and dignified lives.
“Only God can promise you salvation in heaven,” he added, “but together we can fulfill the promise of this great nation.”
Despite Vance’s rising profile within conservative circles, some prominent Republicans like Senator Rand Paul voiced skepticism about his potential leadership role. Paul criticized Vance’s alignment with protectionist policies and called for representatives who support free-market principles.
While discussing future Democratic contenders for presidency post-Trump era, Vance pointed out their shortcomings and criticized their qualifications. He also took jabs at specific candidates running in upcoming elections while emphasizing inclusivity within the America First movement.
