Former Vice President Mike Pence’s decision not to endorse former President Trump, his former boss and two-time running mate, is a significant departure among ex-Trump officials who have refrained from backing Trump’s 2024 candidacy.
Former Trump administration officials turned critics underscored the historical importance of a former vice president abstaining from endorsing a former running mate. They argue that this decision serves as a stark warning to voters about Trump’s suitability for office.
Sarah Matthews, a former Trump White House spokesperson, emphasized Pence’s decision as a powerful statement from a highly credible source, given Pence’s close access to Trump.
Pence’s announcement on Friday, citing policy disagreements and concerns about Trump’s conduct around the Capitol attack, highlighted a notable break in their alliance. This move, despite Pence’s previous loyalty, reflects a broader shift in the conservative movement.
While Pence’s decision is remarkable, it aligns with other former Trump officials distancing themselves from the ex-president. Nikki Haley, Chris Christie, John Bolton, John Kelly, and Mark Esper have all expressed reservations about supporting Trump in 2024.
Despite these warnings from within the Republican Party, Trump’s support remains strong among his base, with little impact on his polling numbers against President Biden in key swing states.
The Biden campaign sees this dissent within the GOP as an opportunity to rally Americans around shared values and principles, emphasizing the importance of standing up against what they perceive as dangerous and extreme leadership.