Following a recent trip to East Asia, former Vice President Mike Pence expressed concerns regarding the direction of foreign policy under the second Trump administration. He emphasized the importance of a firm stance against China, particularly regarding Taiwan's defense, while welcoming the potential for improved relations without compromising on core principles. Pence conveyed these views during a discussion with reporters at the Advancing American Freedom office in Washington, D.C.
Pence believes his neoconservative viewpoint remains relevant within the Republican party, despite the rise of isolationist sentiments. He dismissed the idea that the 2024 election was a mandate for a less interventionist foreign policy, stating, "I don't think people were voting for isolationism." Notably, he refrained from endorsing former President Trump in the 2024 election, given their strained relationship following the January 6th Capitol riot. Trump has indicated he wouldn't hire anyone associated with his former vice president.
Pence expressed apprehension over calls for reduced American involvement in global affairs, including Eastern Europe, the Asia Pacific region, and even support for Israel. He aims to use Advancing American Freedom as a platform to champion traditional conservative values within the GOP.
During his trip to Hong Kong, Pence publicly advocated for the release of imprisoned media tycoon and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai, a move that drew audible gasps from the audience. He also urged Trump to reconsider the U.S.-Nippon Steel merger, previously halted by the Biden administration.
Pence voiced concerns over Trump's recent embrace of TikTok, despite the platform's Chinese ownership and data security risks. He questioned the administration's understanding of these concerns, particularly given the potential long-term implications of data collection on younger Americans. He highlighted China's alleged use of TikTok to influence public opinion in Taiwan, potentially paving the way for future actions against the island nation.
Pence credited the first Trump administration with shifting the national consensus on China, noting that the Biden administration retained the imposed tariffs. He also expressed reservations about Trump's nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, citing her past criticism of American foreign policy and perceived apologetic stance towards Vladimir Putin.
While Trump hinted at the possibility of a new nuclear deal with Iran, Pence expressed confidence in the new administration's officials, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, to navigate these discussions cautiously. He stressed the importance of isolating Iran economically and diplomatically.
Pence's group has launched a campaign against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Pence pledged to remain active in public life, advocating for increased defense spending and urging elected officials to support American allies and strengthen deterrence against a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. While acknowledging the U.S. policy of strategic ambiguity regarding Taiwan's defense, Pence emphasized the need for a balanced approach combining diplomatic outreach with military preparedness.
