In a recent political landscape, Mike Pence, the former Vice President, is stepping forward as a notable critic of Donald Trump’s administration. His political advocacy group, Advancing American Freedom (AAF), has invested close to $1 million in advertisements that oppose Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is set to take on the role of leading the nation’s health agencies. Pence is actively speaking out for traditional allies of the United States and has been providing counsel to Congress to maintain a conservative stance amidst increasing populism within the party.
Pence’s recent activities include publishing a retrospective piece that he wrote over ten years ago, addressing the limitations of presidential power, a response to Trump’s assertion that “he who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” This marks a significant shift for Pence, who in the past was known for his unwavering loyalty to Trump, even as their relationship soured following the Trump administration’s fallout over the contentious 2020 election.
Despite his criticisms, Pence emphasizes that he and AAF are not aiming to disrespect the party’s newer conservative ideals or the “Never Trump” faction. Rather, he asserts their commitment to reinforce traditional conservative values that have been eclipsed by the rise of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” populist philosophy. “We’re calling balls and strikes here,” Pence stated, underscoring his group’s intention to offer balanced feedback on the current administration’s policies.
While opposing Kennedy’s appointment due to his support for abortion rights, which Pence viewed as a significant departure from the pro-life policies upheld by previous Republican administrations, AAF is also lobbying against Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Trump’s choice for labor secretary, labeling her as favorable towards unions. In addition, the group plans to advocate for increased military funding, reducing the national deficit, and maintaining the tax cuts from 2017 while negotiating an end to tariffs on allied nations.
In a recent conversation, Pence elaborated on his vision for AAF in the coming years, likening his role to “an anchor to windward,” a concept he found in a Herman Melville novel. He believes it is crucial for conservatives to maintain their foundational values—limited government, fiscal responsibility, traditional values, and a strong defense. These values, he says, continue to embody the enduring essence of the Republican Party.
Pence expressed that his approach is always about principles rather than personal grievances. Reflecting on his interactions with former colleagues and Trump, he noted a cordial exchange at President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, where both he and Trump extended respectful gestures toward one another despite their recent rift. He acknowledged that while some in the party might be hesitant to voice their concerns publicly, he aims to encourage transparency and principled advocacy among fellow Republicans.
When questioned about the support within the party for a return to traditional conservative stances, Pence acknowledged a shift toward populism but maintained that the majority of Republican voters still hold the same values that characterized his and earlier administrations. He recounted a conversation he had with a farmer at a town hall meeting, who supported Trump’s candidacy but still resonated with Pence’s conservative message, highlighting a persistent connection to traditional Republican principles among many voters.
Pence’s reflections included his wife’s response at the Carter funeral, where she notably did not acknowledge the Trumps, an act that received mixed reactions online. He emphasized that the focus should remain on progressing toward conservative objectives rather than dwelling on past conflicts, affirming his commitment to foster a constructive movement within the party for the benefit of America.
