Vance Discusses Conservative Movement Boundaries at Turning Point USA Convention
Vice President JD Vance stated on Sunday that the conservative movement should be inclusive of individuals who "love America." This comment was made during the closing speech of Turning Point USA's annual convention in Phoenix. Vance refrained from establishing specific boundaries regarding certain viewpoints, following weekend discussions within the Republican Party concerning antisemitism.
Vance publicly opposed the use of "purity tests" within the movement. He indicated that he did not attend the convention to "denounce or to de-platform" any conservatives. Turning Point USA, an influential organization with a volunteer network, has indicated support for Vance as a potential future Republican presidential nominee.
Internal Debates Within the GOP
The four-day convention highlighted internal disagreements regarding the future direction of the Republican Party, particularly concerning leadership beyond former President Donald Trump. Discussions included topics such as antisemitism, the U.S. relationship with Israel, and environmental policies.
Ben Shapiro, co-founder of Daily Wire, utilized his address to criticize individuals he described as "charlatans who claim to speak in the name of principle but actually traffic in conspiracism and dishonesty." Shapiro specifically mentioned Tucker Carlson for an interview with podcaster Nick Fuentes, whose followers advocate for the preservation of America's white, Christian identity.
Carlson, speaking later, dismissed the idea of a Republican "civil war" as "totally fake" and suggested that criticism of Vance was an attempt to influence the nomination process. Carlson characterized Vance as embodying the "America first" principle of the Trump coalition. Andrew Kolvet, a spokesperson for Turning Point, described the disagreements as a healthy internal debate necessary for consensus-building.
Vance's Stance on Inclusion and Identity
Vance addressed the controversies present at the convention by stating that the conservative movement should be open to all who are patriotic, regardless of demographic background or specific political controversies. He did not name specific individuals or groups but made these comments amidst ongoing discussions about platforms given to commentators expressing antisemitic views, including Fuentes and podcaster Candace Owens.
Vance emphasized a focus on common objectives, stating, "We have far more important work to do than canceling each other." He referenced the administration's perceived accomplishments in areas such as border security and the economy. Vance also noted efforts to conclude diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, describing their relegation to the "dustbin of history."
Additionally, Vance remarked, "In the United States of America, you don't have to apologize for being white anymore." He also articulated his view that the U.S. "always will be a Christian nation" and that "Christianity is America's creed, the shared moral language from the Revolution to the Civil War and beyond." These statements received support from attendees such as Isaiah White-Diller.
Future Political Landscape
Turning Point USA leadership has publicly expressed support for Vance for a future presidential run. The organization's nationwide network is considered valuable for building momentum in early primary states.
Former President Trump has previously spoken favorably of both Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential successors, even suggesting a future Republican ticket involving them. In August, Trump indicated Vance was "most likely" the "heir apparent" to his political movement, adding, "It's too early, obviously, to talk about it, but certainly he's doing a great job, and he would be probably favorite at this point."