JD Vance news
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The gist
Vice President JD Vance campaigned in Michigan and addressed Jewish conservatives in Las Vegas. His remarks on Israel and end-times comments draw mixed reactions within the GOP.
Background
JD Vance, the current frontrunner for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, has been actively campaigning for GOP candidates in the 2026 midterms. His recent activities include a campaign stop in Michigan and an address to the Republican Jewish Coalition, where he sought to mend ties with pro-Israel Republicans after some discordant remarks. Additionally, his comments on an evangelical podcast about the end times and AI have sparked discussion.
How it unfolded
- Aug 31, 2026Vance campaigned in Michigan for GOP Senate candidate Mike Rogers, attacking Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed, and later flew to Las Vegas to address the Republican Jewish Coalition.
- Sep 1, 2026Politico reported that Vance offered an olive branch to pro-Israel Republicans in a closed-door speech at the RJC summit.
- Sep 2, 2026Vance's podcast interview with evangelical host Bryce Crawford aired, where he said he is doing 'God's work' and wouldn't be shocked if the Antichrist were walking among us.
- Sep 3, 2026Vance held a White House briefing following the departure of press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Some Jewish conservatives, like RJC board member Robert Schostak, see Vance's attendance as a positive sign that he cares about antisemitism and support for Israel.
- Caution
- Some Jews in the GOP have concerns that Vance is breaking with them on Israel, citing his recent remarks about having 'frank conversations' with Netanyahu.
- Critics
- Democratic candidates in Michigan, like Abdul El-Sayed, criticized Vance's attacks and his avoidance of the trade war with Canada, which affects local prices.
Still unverified
Vance's reported discordant conversations with Netanyahu are based on a Fox News interview and have not been independently confirmed.