Ohio Governor Mike DeWine doubled down on his support for Senator JD Vance as former President Donald Trump’s running mate in an exclusive interview with Newsweek at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
DeWine had initially congratulated Vance on X, formerly Twitter, saying, “A son of Middleton, Ohio, JD can relate to the many Americans who are struggling right now to make ends meet in this era of crushing inflation, and a housing market that is unaffordable and shutting many out of a chance at achieving the American dream.”
Building on this endorsement, DeWine shared his enthusiasm about the selection of Vance to Newsweek Congressional Correspondent Alex Rouhandeh at the RNC. “We’re happy. It’s been 80 years since Ohio had a vice presidential candidate, based on my calculations anyway, so this is a good thing,” DeWine said.
The governor, who has held numerous high-profile positions in Ohio over four decades, including U.S. senator and state attorney general, sees Vance’s personal story as a major asset. “What he brings to the ticket is a real kind of amazing life story, which I think will enable him to really relate to people,” he said, referring to Vance’s bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy.
DeWine highlighted Vance’s potential to connect with voters facing family struggles with drug addiction or mental health issues. “I think his story and his life experiences are very helpful not just for the campaign but will be helpful in governing,” he added.
When asked about Vance’s recent appearance at a union picket line, DeWine saw it as a positive development. “I think it’s good. I think you’re seeing the Republican Party appeal more and more to people who are in unions,” he said. This move by Vance appears to signal a shift in GOP strategy toward courting traditionally Democratic-leaning union workers.
DeWine didn’t hold back in praising Vance’s intellectual capabilities, describing him as “very, very smart” and “very articulate.” He emphasized Vance’s ability to “really articulate what the Trump message is.”
When questioned on Vance’s sometimes controversial rhetoric, especially in light of Saturday’s attempted assassination of Trump, DeWine pivoted to praise Trump and President Joe Biden for their recent calls for unity. “I think President Trump’s comments have been spot on. I think President Biden’s have been spot on,” DeWine said.
The governor stressed the importance of focusing on what unites Americans. “We have to keep reminding ourselves of that which binds us all together as Americans.”
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.