Former Vice President Pence addresses conservative issues and positions in NewsNation town hall

During a NewsNation town hall, former Vice President Mike Pence reinforced his conservative stance on key issues, positioning himself as the most traditional candidate in the 2024 presidential race. Pence discussed topics ranging from military holds to family values, immigration, and transgender health care for children, all while emphasizing his adherence to “traditional moral values.”

1. Economic Struggles and Labor Unions: Pence acknowledged the ongoing labor negotiations between the United Auto Workers (UAW) union and major auto companies, noting that the situation reflects the economic challenges faced by American families. He criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the economy, including issues like inflation and gas prices. Pence’s proposed solution on day one of his presidency would be to prioritize energy independence to combat rising costs.

2. Strengthening Families: Responding to a question about restoring “nuclear families” in the United States, Pence stressed the importance of strengthening families and recalled former President Ronald Reagan’s words that “All great change in America begins at the dinner table.” Pence shared his commitment to preserving his marriage by not dining alone with women, a promise that gained attention during his tenure as vice president. He also expressed openness to selecting a female vice president, emphasizing the importance of shared core values and strong character.

3. Opposition to Transgender Health Care: Pence reiterated his opposition to transgender health care for individuals under 18. Despite a tearful inquiry from an LGBTQ+ voter regarding violence against the transgender community, Pence emphasized his belief that teaching young children that gender transitions are possible is wrong. However, he also emphasized the need to protect all Americans, regardless of their values, from violence.

4. Education and School Choice: Pence advocated for shutting down the Department of Education and eliminating what he referred to as “radical gender ideology” in schools. He proposed redirecting education funding to states and giving parents the freedom to choose their children’s schools, emphasizing the benefits of competition in improving educational quality.

5. Support for Tuberville’s Pentagon Standoff and Immigration Policies: Pence expressed support for Senator Tommy Tuberville’s military holds, which have prevented approximately 300 promotions in the Armed Forces. Tuberville’s stand is related to Pentagon policies on abortion care. Pence argued that pro-life taxpayers should not have their funds used for what he referred to as a “liberal Democrat agenda” within the Pentagon. On immigration, Pence pledged to restart border wall construction and reinstate Title 42 to expedite asylum applications. He cited the need for new leadership in addressing the immigration crisis.

While Pence emphasized his conservative positions during the town hall, recent polling indicates that he faces challenges in gaining support, with former President Donald Trump leading among potential Republican primary candidates.