Some House Republicans are privately criticizing former President Trump’s choice of Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate, expressing concerns about Vance’s foreign policy positions, lack of experience, and inability to expand the Republican coalition,.

Speaking anonymously to The Hill, several GOP lawmakers voiced their disapproval. One Republican stated, “He was the worst choice of all the options. It was so bad I didn’t even think it was possible.” Another added, “I think if you were to ask many people around this building, 9 out of 10 on our side would say he’s the wrong pick.”

The anxiety has intensified following President Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race and his endorsement of Vice President Harris. Republicans worry about the contrast between the Trump-Vance ticket and Harris, a Black and Asian American woman.

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Some Republicans had hoped for more diversity in their nominees, with former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem previously considered as potential candidates.

Trump Campaign Defends Vance Pick

However, Trump’s campaign and supporters are defending the choice. Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung told The Hill, “President Trump is thrilled with the choice he made with Senator Vance, and they are the perfect team to take back the White House.”

Critics also point to Vance’s limited political experience and his past criticisms of Trump. During the 2016 campaign, Vance called Trump “noxious” and “reprehensible,” and even referred to him as “America’s Hitler” in a private message.

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Despite these concerns, some Republicans, like Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), support the pick, arguing that Vance aligns well with Trump’s vision.

Read more at The Hill