US Vice President JD Vance took the stage at the Republican National Midterm Convention in Dallas on Thursday night, delivering a speech that positioned him as a potential heir to President Donald Trump’s political influence. The event was marked by strong rhetoric against Democrats, with Vance calling them the 'party of hatred' and accusing them of trying to control how people live and what they say. Vance’s speech was interrupted at one point by chants of '48', a reference to the number of electoral votes needed for a presidential win.
He emphasized the importance of November's midterm elections and urged voters to support Republican candidates who stand for traditional values, according to France 24. Vance also spoke about his friendship with conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who died earlier in the year, and used Kirk’s legacy to reach out to voters concerned about current policies, according to a report from The Hill. He reminded the audience that Kirk had opposed war, especially in the Middle East, and encouraged people not to abandon core principles just because of disagreements.
Vance’s appearance was notable for its timing, as he spoke directly before President Trump returned to the stage for his closing remarks. Trump praised Vance’s performance and said he had done a very good job, calling him a talented vice president who has been great in his role. Although Vance has not officially committed to running for president, he is widely seen as a leading candidate for the 2028 Republican nomination.
In a poll compiled by Race to the WH, Vance led among potential 2028 GOP contenders with 40 percent support, followed by Marco Rubio at around 22 percent. Vance also addressed concerns about family and fatherhood, saying that Democrats were attacking traditional values and trying to eliminate the concept of family. He said that those who wish to destroy families should stay away from children, emphasizing his message of protecting American values.
Supporters at the convention described Vance as charismatic and aligned with their vision for America’s future. One attendee said he was considering Vance strongly for a 2028 presidential pick, reflecting the growing interest in him among Republican base voters. Despite being a key figure in the event, Trump remained visually dominant throughout the night, reinforcing his role as the central force behind the Republican campaign.
The president also reiterated his promise to give every American adult a $5,000 payment if Republicans win control of both chambers of Congress. Vance’s speech was part of a broader effort by Republicans to rally support ahead of the midterms, which are seen as critical for the party's future. The convention highlighted the challenge Republicans face in mobilizing voters loyal to Trump while also appealing to independents who have soured on his presidency.
Vance’s appearance added to the ongoing discussion about whether he or others like Marco Rubio might eventually succeed Trump in leading the party. Trump’s closing remarks included a message that voters must turn out on November 3 or risk losing their country to Democrats. He also criticized Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and warned that Democrats would ruin the nation if they gained power.
The event underscored the Republican Party’s focus on building a coalition for the future while still relying heavily on Trump’s personal appeal.