Pence Pledges to be a Conservative Voice, Hints at Future Political Role

Former Vice President Mike Pence, despite no longer holding office, is determined to remain a prominent voice within the Republican Party. Fresh off receiving the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, Pence sat down for an exclusive interview with Fox News, outlining his intentions to champion conservative principles and act as a check on former President Donald Trump should his administration stray from that path.

Pence emphasized the successes of the Trump-Pence administration, particularly its adherence to a conservative agenda. He credited Trump for his 2024 election victory, attributing to it the prevention of another Democratic administration. He further lauded Trump’s achievements in securing the southern border, bolstering military morale and recruitment, and confronting the Houthis.

However, Pence expressed concern over certain policy directions the Trump administration might take that deviate from conservative ideals. He vowed to voice his opposition to such measures, believing they could ultimately harm Trump’s legacy, the Republican Party, and the nation.

Pence reiterated his commitment to traditional conservative tenets, including a strong national defense, American leadership on the global stage, limited government, lower taxes, traditional moral values, and the right to life. He positioned himself as a steadfast advocate for these principles.

Specifically, Pence criticized the suggestion floated by some House Republicans to raise taxes on the wealthy to finance Trump’s agenda. He vehemently opposed the idea, characterizing it as a significant tax increase on small business owners across America. Pence called for making the Trump-Pence tax cuts permanent as a means of fostering economic growth.

Beyond domestic policy, Pence has been critical of Trump’s foreign policy shifts, particularly the upending of long-standing alliances. He urged Trump to prioritize strengthening ties with traditional international partners.

Pence’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles was on full display during his acceptance speech at the JFK Presidential Library. He received a standing ovation when he affirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine.

Recalling his own unsuccessful bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Pence framed his campaign around traditional conservative values, contrasting them with the rise of populism within the party. While he campaigned extensively in early-voting states, his campaign struggled to gain traction, leading him to suspend it after a few months.

When asked about the possibility of another political chapter, perhaps another run for national office, Pence remained open to the future. He stated that he would leave that decision to the American people, reiterating his commitment to advocating for conservative values.

Addressing Trump’s repeated suggestions of seeking a third term in 2028, a violation of the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Pence stressed the paramount importance of upholding the Constitution. He emphasized that all elected officials take an oath to support and defend the Constitution, urging everyone, including the president, to take that oath to heart.

Pence received the Profile in Courage Award for his actions on January 6, 2021, when he upheld his constitutional duty to oversee the certification of the 2020 election results despite intense pressure from Trump and his supporters. He was honored for placing his life, career, and family at risk to safeguard the democratic principle of free and fair elections.

Caroline Kennedy, the late President Kennedy’s daughter, presented Pence with the award, praising his actions as preserving a fundamental democratic principle. Pence acknowledged that the award was a distinction he would cherish.

Pence emphasized his belief that he had fulfilled his duty on that day. He also expressed gratitude for the widespread support he has received from Americans across the country in the years since. He said that the American people recognize that despite their differences, the Constitution is the common ground on which they stand.

In summary, Mike Pence is positioning himself as a prominent voice within the Republican Party, dedicated to upholding conservative principles and serving as a check on the Trump administration. While his future political plans remain uncertain, he is committed to advocating for traditional values and upholding the Constitution. His recent receipt of the Profile in Courage Award underscores his commitment to principle, even in the face of immense pressure.