Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), newly selected as Donald Trump’s running mate, rocketed onto the national stage in 2016 after documenting the roots of the MAGA movement in his book “Hillbilly Elegy.” Less than a decade later, the native Ohioan has been tapped to bolster the Republican presidential ticket — bringing a unique brand of economic populism that sets him apart from much of the GOP. Vance’s ascendance from a self-described “‘Never Trump’ guy” to vice-presidential candidate was quick, sped along by agreement over stricter border policies and aggressive trade proposals. But he’s also diverted from typical GOP talking points, including through his pro-union views and support for antitrust regulation.
Lower Taxes
If Trump prevails in November, Vance is likely to go along with the GOP’s push to aggressively cut taxes again. Trump is promising to extend the parts of the 2017 tax law he signed that are set to expire next year, and Vance is expected to support that effort. He has also signed a pledge from Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform, to oppose “any and all” tax increases.
Still, Vance has taken some steps to suggest a break with GOP orthodoxy on taxes. Earlier this year, he introduced legislation to limit large corporate mergers by targeting a tax break for firms with combined annual revenue of more than $500 million. He also introduced legislation to tax large university endowments.
More surprisingly, Vance called in 2021 for tax hikes on corporations after some business leaders planned to respond to GOP-led changes to state voting laws. That position surprised many business executives and GOP donors, who wanted Trump to pick Republican Gov. Doug Burgum (N.D.) or Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) to be his running mate.
Raise their taxes and do whatever else is necessary to fight these goons. We can have an American Republic or a global oligarchy, and it’s time for choosing. https://t.co/WYFEYpiTyz — J.D. Vance (@JDVance1) April 12, 2021
