Blaming Iran war for defeat, Vance walks Trump tightrope in scathing election critique

Vance blames the war

Vance said the Iran conflict was the reason Republicans lost the midterm election. He added that Trump had made the same point the previous night. He has reportedly opposed the war in private discussions with administration officials. His remarks represented an unusually sharp break by a sitting vice-president over a major foreign policy issue.

A separation from Trump

Vance did not name Trump in his post, and he credited unnamed pollsters for much of his analysis. The comments were widely seen in Washington as an effort to create distance from the president ahead of a possible 2028 run.

A political roadmap

Vance also outlined four priorities for rebuilding support: ending the war, addressing living costs and inflation, putting America first, and changing the relationship with Israel. The proposals could offer a preview of themes for a future campaign.

The next presidential election is two years away, and Vance has not formally decided whether to run. His aides say he is still considering the choice.

Trump retains options

Trump could still decide that he will not tolerate dissent from Vance or other allies. He has kept observers guessing about who might carry on his political movement.

Trump has previously floated serving a third term, although the US Constitution bars that. The midterm defeat may weaken his power at home, but the article notes that he continues to wield power for now.