Trump Picks His Running Mate — and Political Heir
In this episode of The Daily, reporters provide a behind-the-scenes look at the Republican National Convention. They describe the heightened security measures in place and the carefully controlled nomination process that officially declared Donald Trump as the Republican presidential candidate.
The episode focuses on Trump's selection of J.D. Vance as his running mate, exploring the strategic rationale behind the pick. Vance's background and political views suggest he could appeal to critical swing-state voters and act as Trump's ideological heir within the party. However, Vance's own past criticisms of Trump and controversial positions on issues like the 2020 election pose potential vulnerabilities for him on the campaign trail.
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1-Page Summary
The security and logistics of the Republican National Convention
The convention site was heavily fortified with tight security measures like thorough inspections by Secret Service agents and security teams. Michael Barbaro and his team experienced stringent checks upon arrival, including bomb-sniffing dogs and detailed vehicle searches at a pop-up metal wall.
RNC staff and volunteers tightly controlled convention proceedings, strictly managing press and delegates. At a campaign briefing, audio recording was prohibited, signaling an intent to carefully manage public messaging.
The nomination process for Trump and his running mate
Delegates formally nominated Trump as the presidential candidate following routine procedures like the delegate roll call vote, confirming his candidacy with pledged support from each state.
Meanwhile, suspense built over Trump's selection of a running mate, described by Mike Bender as a "giant piece of news" due to the uncertainty leading up to the reveal. Contenders like Burgum, Rubio, and Vance were considered, with Trump exhibiting his trademark indecisiveness up until the last minute.
The rationale behind Trump's selection of J.D. Vance as his VP
Trump selected J.D. Vance primarily for strategic reasons and Vance's evolution from critic to supporter.
Sanger-Katz suggests Vance's Ohio roots and anti-trade, economic populist views appeal to working-class voters needed in Midwestern swing states. His staunchly conservative stances also align him closely with Trump's agenda.
Notably, Vance publicly shifted from harshly criticizing Trump to ardently supporting him over several years. Trump seemed impressed by this "redemption narrative" and Vance's ability to communicate Trumpism, despite Democrats anticipating criticism over Vance's past stance.
The implications of Vance's selection
Vance's youth at 39 and ideological alignment position him as the potential heir apparent to carry on Trump's political legacy and Trumpism within the Republican Party long-term.
Delegates envision Vance sustaining the party's Trumpist shift for potentially 16 years, signaling the pre-Trump GOP establishment is gone. However, Vance's extremist positions and past Trump criticism could make him a vulnerable Democratic target.
His willingness to overturn the 2020 election also raises concerns about undermining faith in democratic processes, likely becoming a focal issue in 2024.
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Counterarguments
- The security measures, while thorough, could be seen as excessive and potentially infringing on the rights of attendees, creating an atmosphere of distrust rather than safety.
- Strict control over the convention proceedings and the prohibition of audio recording might be criticized as a lack of transparency and a way to stifle free press.
- The routine nature of the nomination process could be viewed as merely ceremonial if the outcome is predetermined, thus questioning the democratic nature of the process.
- The suspense over the vice-presidential pick could be interpreted as a strategic distraction from more substantive policy discussions.
- The selection of J.D. Vance might be criticized for being more about political strategy than about finding the most qualified candidate for the vice presidency.
- Vance's appeal to working-class voters in the Midwest could be challenged if his policies do not align with their interests beyond rhetoric.
- The alignment of Vance's conservative stances with Trump's agenda might not necessarily represent the broader Republican base or the general electorate.
- The idea of Vance as an heir apparent assumes that Trumpism will continue to dominate the Republican Party, which could be contested by those advocating for a return to more traditional conservative values.
- The notion that the pre-Trump GOP establishment is gone ignores the possibility of political shifts and changes within the party's base over time.
- The vulnerability of Vance as a Democratic target could be overstated if his messaging resonates with a significant portion of the electorate.
- The concern about undermining faith in democratic processes with regards to the 2020 election could be countered by arguments emphasizing election integrity and the need for scrutiny of electoral outcomes.
Actionables
- You can enhance your personal security by adopting some of the measures used at high-profile events, like creating a checklist for home safety that includes regular checks of locks, installing security cameras, and having an emergency plan in place. For example, you might schedule monthly checks to ensure your smoke detectors and home alarm systems are functioning properly and practice emergency drills with your family.
- Develop a critical eye for public messaging by practicing media literacy; start by analyzing different news sources for bias and intent when they report on political events or candidates. You could compare how different news outlets cover the same political story, noting the language used and the information highlighted or omitted, to better understand the underlying messaging.
- Engage in community discussions about the importance of democratic processes by organizing or participating in local book clubs or discussion groups focused on political literature. Choose books that explore the history of democratic institutions or the impact of political movements, and use these discussions to foster a deeper understanding of the value of maintaining the integrity of electoral systems.
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The security and logistics of the Republican National Convention
The Republican National Convention was fortified by heightened security and tight control over proceedings, as the campaign sought to create a smoothly managed, secure environment for all attendees.
Tight security measures were implemented to keep the convention site secure, including thorough inspections of people and vehicles entering the premises.
Michael Barbaro and his team experienced the stringent security firsthand. As soon as they arrived, Secret Service agents verified their badges, after which their cars were herded to a pop-up metal wall for a thorough inspection. Bomb-sniffing dogs and security teams required them to open their car trunks, switch off the engines, and lift the hoods for detailed checks. This protocol was a part of the rigorous security measures designed to ensure the safety of all individuals entering the convention area.
The convention proceedings were tightly controlled, with RNC staff and volunteers directing the press and delegates.
RNC staff and volunteers were observed maintaining strict regulation over the proceedings, as seen by their directed guidance of the journalists. At a Trump campaign briefing, the persisting theme o ...
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The security and logistics of the Republican National Convention
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While tight security measures are important, they can create an atmosphere of exclusion or excessive control, which may not be conducive to the open democratic process conventions are meant to embody.
- The verification of badges and detailed vehicle checks, while necessary for security, could be seen as overly intrusive or indicative of a heightened security state that may not always be warranted.
- The use of bomb-sniffing dogs and extensive security teams could be criticized for potentially being an overreaction if the threat level does not justify such measures, leading to unnecessary costs and allocation of resources.
- The tight control over convention proceedings by RNC staff and volunteers might be viewed as limiting the freedom of the press and the open exchange of ideas, which are fundamental to a democratic society.
- Directing and guiding journalists too strictly could be criticized as a form of censorship or control over the media, which may undermine the media's role in holding power ...
Actionables
- You can enhance your personal security by creating a routine to check your home's entry points each night, ensuring all doors and windows are locked and any security systems are activated.
- By establishing a nightly routine, you create a habit that minimizes the risk of intrusion. For example, before bedtime, do a walk-through of your home, checking that all potential entry points are secure and any alarms are set. This simple action can significantly increase your personal safety.
- Organize your personal information and access to it by using badge-like systems for your online accounts.
- Implementing a password manager acts like a digital badge system, verifying your identity and granting access to your accounts while keeping unauthorized users out. For instance, use a password manager to store complex passwords for each of your online accounts, and enable two-factor authentication where possible to add an extra layer of security.
- Create a structured environment for your work-from-home setup ...
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The nomination process for Trump and his running mate
As the convention unfolds, the Republican Party undergoes the formalities of nominating Donald Trump for president, while suspense builds over his choice of a running mate.
The formal nomination of Donald Trump as the Republican presidential candidate was a routine but necessary part of the convention.
During the convention, the necessary yet predictable step in the nomination process unfolded. Delegates from each state pledged their support for Trump by following the procedure outlined for the early afternoon. The delegate roll call vote, as observed from states like West Virginia with their designated speakers, marked the culmination of primary votes cast many months ago. This technical requirement was performed as delegates publicly confirmed Trump's candidacy, making it official when a sufficient number of delegates backed him.
The selection of Trump's running mate was a highly anticipated and suspenseful event.
The convention's schedule included a time of high anticipation and suspense for the announcement of Trump's running mate—a moment described as a "giant piece of news" due to the uncertainty leading up to the final decision. Mike Bender, a reporter on the vice-presidential (VP) beat, referred to three main contenders: Doug Burgum, Marco Rubio, and J.D. Vance. However, even minutes before the revelation, Bender suggested that Trump's decision was still up in th ...
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The nomination process for Trump and his running mate
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Actionables
- You can enhance decision-making skills by practicing with low-stakes choices in a group setting, like picking a restaurant or movie with friends, to mirror the anticipation and decision-making process in high-stakes scenarios.
- Start by gathering a group of friends and setting up a scenario where you have to make a choice, such as where to eat out. Each friend can represent a different option, advocating for their choice as if they were a candidate. Delay your final decision to build suspense and practice managing uncertainty. Reflect on how you feel during the process and what influences your decision at the last minute.
- Improve your ability to handle suspense by creating a 'suspense journal' where you document moments of anticipation in your daily life and your reactions to them.
- Keep a small notebook or digital document where you jot down times when you're waiting for something with an uncertain outcome, like a job interview result or a call from someone important. Note your emotional state, how you cope with the suspense, and what the eventual outcome is. Over time, you'll start to see patterns in your behavior that you can work on to become more composed during suspenseful situations.
- Develop a better understanding of group dynamics and decision-making by ...
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The rationale behind Trump's selection of J.D. Vance as his VP
Former President Trump's decision to choose J.D. Vance as his Vice Presidential running mate was strategic and calculated, hinging on Vance's background, politics, and his evolution from critic to supporter of Trump.
Strategic Selection for Swing State Appeal
Trump's selection of Vance is primarily strategic due to Vance's potential appeal to voters in crucial swing states in the Midwest.
Appeal to Working-Class Voters
Vance’s roots in rural Ohio and family ties to Appalachia give him a personal understanding of issues that Trump has often highlighted, such as the loss of manufacturing jobs and the perception of institutions failing working-class and blue-collar Americans. Vance's experiences and anti-trade, economic populist views resonate with the very voters Trump needs to win over in battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Republican delegates believe that Vance can help secure the Midwestern states essential for a victory come November.
Policy Alignment
Vance's staunchly conservative positions, especially on abortion, align him closely with Trump’s political agenda. Recognized for being far right on several issues, his economic populism and isolationist tendencies gel well with Trump’s own politics. Vance’s strong anti-abortion stance further cements his position as a candidate who can uphold the conservative values that are integral to Trump’s platform.
From Critic to Ardent Supporter
Vance's Redemption Narrative
Vance's dramatic shift in regards to Trump—from a harsh critic to an ardent supporter—was a significant factor in his selection. Trump was seemingly impressed by Vance's "redemption narrative," which showed Vance admitting he was "lied to" about Trump by the media. Despite Vance's past harsh criticism, where he even compared Trump to Hitler and called him an “opioid of the masses,” Trump viewed Vance’s ability to embrace and effectively communicate Trumpism as a substantial asset.
Overcoming Past Criticisms
The tran ...
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The rationale behind Trump's selection of J.D. Vance as his VP
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Clarifications
- Former President Trump's choice of J.D. Vance as his potential Vice Presidential running mate was a strategic move aimed at appealing to voters in key swing states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Vance's background as a conservative figure with roots in rural Ohio and his evolution from a critic to a supporter of Trump played a significant role in his selection. Trump saw Vance's alignment with his political agenda, especially on issues like abortion and economic populism, as crucial for reinforcing conservative values within his platform.
- In U.S. elections, swing states are crucial because they do not consistently vote for a single political party. They are pivotal in determining the overall election outcome due to their potential to swing in favor of either major party. Candidates often focus their campaign efforts and resources on these states to secure their electoral votes. Winning key swing states can significantly impact a candidate's path to victory in the Electoral College.
- J.D. Vance has roots in rural Ohio and family ties to Appalachia, which means he has personal connections to these regions. This background gives him a unique perspective on issues affecting these areas, such as economic challenges and social issues prevalent in rural and Appalachian communities. Vance's upbringing and experiences in these regions shape his understanding of the concerns and needs of the people living there. His ties to rural Ohio and Appalachia are significant factors in shaping his political views and policy positions.
- Economic populism is a political approach that focuses on appealing to the interests and concerns of ordinary people, especially those who feel marginalized or disadvantaged by the current economic system. It often involves advocating for policies that aim to address income inequality, protect workers' rights, and challenge the influence of elites in economic decision-making. Populist leaders typically frame themselves as champions of the common people against entrenched power structures, promising to prioritize the needs of the working class over those of the wealthy or corporate interests. This ideology can manifest in calls for trade protectionism, increased government intervention in the economy, and a rejection of traditional establishment policies in favor of mea ...
Counterarguments
- Vance's appeal to working-class voters in the Midwest might not be as strong as assumed, considering the complexity and diversity of issues that concern these voters.
- Economic populism and anti-trade views may not align with the broader Republican party's traditional support for free trade and market-based solutions.
- Vance's conservative positions, particularly on abortion, could alienate moderate Republicans and independent voters who are crucial for winning a general election.
- The transformation from a critic to a supporter could be viewed skeptically by voters who question the authenticity of such a dramatic shift in opinion.
- Embracing Trumpism might not resonate with the entire Republican base, especially those who are looking for a fresh direction post-Trump.
- Overcoming past criticisms by aligning with Trump might not be sufficient ...
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The implications of Vance's selection for the future of the Republican Party and Trump's 2024 campaign
With Vance's selection, there are broad implications for the future of the Republican Party and Donald Trump's potential 2024 presidential campaign.
Vance's youth and ideological alignment with Trumpism position him as the heir apparent to carry on the former president's political legacy.
Vance, at just 39 years old, is perceived as a youthful beacon for Trumpism, indicating a significant generational shift and a long-term embracing of Trump's political style and ideology within the Republican Party. His relative youth positions him as a potential long-term leader who can sustain the party's shift toward Trumpism beyond 2024.
Delegates within the Republican Party acknowledge Vance's youth and envision him carrying the mantle of Trumpism well into the future, potentially even for the next sixteen years. Trump’s choice of Vance sends a clear message: Trump is not looking to diversify the party or expand its traditional base. Rather, he's reinforcing his commitment to a specific segment of the GOP that aligns with the Make America Great Again (MAGA) ethos.
Vance's selection signals that the pre-Trump Republican establishment is gone, and Trumpism is the new direction for the party.
The selection of Vance signals to party members and the general public that the era of the pre-Trump Republican establishment is effectively over. Trumpism has now become the guiding principle and path forward for the party. This choice shows that Trump's influence remains powerful and that Trumpism will continue to shape Republican politics and policies for the foreseeable future.
Vance's selection could bolster Trump's 2024 campaign by appealing to key voting blocs in crucial swing states.
Trump's endorsement of Vance could provide a strategic advantage for the 2024 campaign by galvanizing key demographics in important swing states. However, there are risks associated with Vance's selection as well.
However, Vance's past criticism of Trump and his extremist positions could also make him a vulnerable target ...
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The implications of Vance's selection for the future of the Republican Party and Trump's 2024 campaign
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Vance's selection as a key figure in the Republican Party signals a shift towards Trumpism as the dominant ideology within the party, sidelining the traditional Republican establishment. This move aligns the party more closely with the principles and style of former President Donald Trump, indicating a strategic direction for the GOP's future. Vance's youth and ideological alignment position him as a potential long-term leader who could carry on Trump's political legacy beyond the 2024 election cycle.
- "Trumpism" generally refers to the political ideology and style associated with former President Donald Trump. It encompasses a mix of nationalist, populist, and conservative elements, emphasizing America-first policies, anti-establishment rhetoric, and a focus on issues like immigration and trade. Trumpism also includes a personalistic leadership style, characterized by a confrontational approach to politics, a strong emphasis on loyalty, and a tendency to challenge traditional norms and institutions. The term signifies a shift within the Republican Party towards a more Trump-centric approach to governance and policymaking.
- Vance's alignment with Trump signals a shift towards Trumpism within the Republican Party, in ...
Counterarguments
- Vance's youth may not necessarily guarantee his ability to carry on Trump's legacy, as political legacies are often shaped by a complex interplay of factors including political acumen, public opinion, and unforeseen future events.
- The selection of Vance might not signal a complete end to the pre-Trump Republican establishment, as there are still many influential figures and voters within the party who may support more traditional conservative values and policies.
- While Trump's endorsement of Vance could appeal to certain voting blocs, it could also alienate other voters who are looking for a fresh face or a different direction within the Republican Party.
- Vance's past criticism of Trump could be seen as a sign of independent thinking and a willingness to critique leadership withi ...
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