Former Vice President Mike Pence is positioning himself as a “constructive force for the conservative agenda” during President Trump’s second term, despite their public fallout following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. In a recent interview, Pence emphasized that his approach is rooted in principles rather than personal grievances, stating, “It’s always principles first. It’s not personal.”
Pence’s political action committee, Advancing American Freedom, has been active in opposing Trump’s new Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., spending nearly $1 million on ads against him. Pence expressed concern over Kennedy’s support for abortion rights, viewing it as a significant departure from the pro-life leadership traditionally upheld by Republican administrations.
When discussing why some Republicans may hesitate to publicly oppose Trump, Pence remarked, “I never speculate on motives,” but he encouraged his fellow party members to step up and lead on important issues. He hopes to embolden others to voice their concerns and stand firm on conservative values.
Pence has been lobbying Congress and giving speeches to urge Trump to align with long-time conservative allies. He aims for Advancing American Freedom to commend the administration when it aligns with their values while also voicing concerns when it does not. He expressed satisfaction with Trump’s early actions, particularly in reversing Biden’s border policies.
In a somewhat unusual anecdote, Pence recounted a conversation with a man in Iowa who encouraged him to run for president in 2028, highlighting a desire for a rematch against Biden and concerns over “lawfare” against political figures. Pence believes the Republican Party has not shifted away from its core values, despite the challenges faced in recent elections.
Pence attended Trump’s inauguration and noted the warm reception he received from former colleagues, including members of the new administration. He also shared a cordial exchange with Trump at the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, indicating that he has moved past their differences.
While Pence acknowledges the ongoing tensions between him and Trump, he maintains that his focus remains on the principles of conservatism and the future of the Republican Party. He has expressed a willingness to support the administration on shared issues while standing firm on his beliefs when they diverge.
