Former Senator and now Vice President JD Vance, a familiar face at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), addressed the gathering for the first time since taking office. His appearance at the National Harbor event marks a return to the conference he frequented during his 2022 Senate campaign and the 2024 presidential race as Donald Trump's running mate.
CPAC, a cornerstone of the conservative movement since 1974, has become a significant platform for MAGA Republicans and America First supporters. Vance's speech centered on the Trump-Vance administration's accomplishments, both domestically and internationally, during their initial month in office.
Vance played a crucial role in confirming Trump's Cabinet nominees during his two years in the Senate. His impactful speech at the Munich Security Conference, where he directly addressed European leaders, garnered significant attention.
Trump's selection of Vance, the author of "Hillbilly Elegy" and former venture capitalist, as his running mate fueled speculation about Vance being Trump's potential successor. While Trump acknowledged Vance's capabilities in a recent Fox News interview, he dismissed immediate considerations of a 2028 presidential run, stating it was "too early."
Amidst speculation surrounding the 2028 election and CPAC's traditional presidential straw poll, Vance, in an interview with FOX Business, emphasized his focus on serving the American people effectively. He stated his priority is ensuring the success of the Trump administration and will address future political prospects when the time comes.
