Former President Donald Trump has chosen Senator JD Vance of Ohio, who was once a staunch critic but has since become a loyal ally, as his GOP running mate.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Former President Donald Trump has selected Senator JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate, marking the first time a millennial has been on a major-party ticket amid growing concerns about the advanced age of America's political leaders. Vance, once a fierce critic of Trump, has since become a loyal ally.See More

“After lengthy deliberation and thought, and considering the tremendous talents of many others, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President of the United States is Senator JD Vance of the Great State of Ohio,” Trump announced on his Truth Social network as the Republican National Convention commenced in Milwaukee.


Later, Vance formally accepted his party’s nomination, walking onto the convention floor to the tune of Merle Haggard’s “American First.” During the opening night program, Trump, who sported a large bandage on his right ear following a shooting incident on Saturday, sat alongside Vance in his box.

The 39-year-old Vance gained national recognition with his 2016 memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy.” Elected to the Senate in 2022, Vance has emerged as a staunch advocate of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” agenda, especially on issues such as trade, foreign policy, and immigration.