Could J.D. Vance be the true successor to Ronald Reagan in the Republican party?
Over the weekend, “Saturday Night Live” also jumped on the critics of Tim Walz, mocking his poor performance in the debate.
However, the impact of the vice-presidential debate on the election outcome has been minimal, given recent events domestically and internationally.
Yet, the lasting impact of the debate cannot be denied. J.D. Vance’s performance has positioned him as a significant force in national politics.
After the debate, Vance’s favorability ratings improved more than Walz’s, which defied many pundits’ predictions.
Contrary to expectations, Vance demonstrated intelligence, articulateness, and a focus on average Americans, distancing himself from the Trumpian base.
Amidst the expectations of Vance being pugnacious like Trump or provocative in his statements, his debate performance revealed a different side – one that was polite, principled, and well-informed.
Vance’s approach aligns with a politics based on conservative-populist values that resonate with a diverse range of Americans.
He will need to continue refining his political skills, including incorporating conservative themes into mass appeal while maintaining the support of his base.
Vance’s potential realignment of conservative populism could bridge divisions in American politics and offer a new path forward.
As he matures as a politician, Vance has the opportunity to lead a transformative movement that transcends traditional party lines.
His performance in the debate hinted at a new direction that many Americans seem eager for, one that combines the best aspects of both parties.
If Vance can continue on this path, he has the potential to become a dominant figure in American politics, reshaping the Republican Party in the process.
Looking ahead, Vance’s role in the debate could be viewed as a pivotal moment in his political career, signaling his emergence as a significant player on the national stage.
Henry Olsen, a political analyst and commentator, is a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center.
