Vance

Vice President JD Vance speaks at EDSI Cables Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Auburn Hills, Mich.

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Democrats sharpen criticism of Vance as they look past Trump to the 2028 presidential campaign

Democrats sharpen criticism of Vance as they look past Trump to the 2028 presidential campaign

Democrats are starting to treat Vice President JD Vance, not Donald Trump, as their number one focus among Republican leaders. That was evident Saturday night, when Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear visited Vance's home county in Ohio for a Democratic fundraiser. Beshear spoke about Vance’s memoir and said “Hillbilly Elegy” leans on "tired stereotypes" about Appalachia. Other Democrats have also sharpened their criticism of Vance, calling the vice president an extremist or a phony. Democratic strategists say the goal is to undercut Vance before he can consolidate support as Trump's heir apparent for the White House in 2028.