Vance’s Stance on the 2020 Election
In a proclamation that stands as his most definitive during this election period, Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance declared that he does not hold the belief that former President Donald Trump was defeated in the 2020 election. Vance’s statement was prompted when a journalist posed the question, “What impression do you suppose it gives to Independent voters when you refrain from unequivocally answering the query, ‘Did Donald Trump lose in 2020?'”
“Regarding the 2020 election, I’ve addressed this inquiry unequivocally numerous times. No, I perceive there were significant issues in 2020, so, did Donald Trump lose the election? Those are not the terms I would employ,” Vance articulated. “But frankly, I am indifferent as to whether you concur or not with my stance on this matter.”
In a clip that recently resurfaced from Spectrum News 1 in 2022, Vance confirmed, “Yes, I do,” when questioned if he believed the 2020 election was unlawfully taken. In that election, President Joe Biden bested former President Donald Trump by an excess of 7 million votes.
Repeated Inquiries and Consistent Responses
This articulation by Vance follows a period where he was frequently interrogated by the media regarding whether the former president conceded the 2020 election. His responses have been consistent, suggesting ongoing skepticism about the integrity of the electoral process.
More: Vance aligns with Trump’s unfounded allegations about influences from Venezuelan gangs in Aurora, Colorado.
Interview with ABC News
This past Sunday, during an appearance on “This Week” with ABC’s Martha Raddatz, Vance evaded a straight answer when pressed about the results of the 2020 election. “Martha, you’ve put this question forth. I’ve encountered this inquiry ten times over recent weeks. Certainly, Donald Trump and I are convinced there were issues in 2020,” Vance stated. When prompted further by Raddatz, Vance added, “I have repeatedly asserted I think the 2020 election was problematic. If you wish to use terms like rigged or claim he won, you can utilize any terms you wish.”
At a campaign gathering in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, when ABC News queried the Ohio senator about if he harbored concerns that misinformation regarding elections could sway this election cycle, Vance disclosed his apprehensions.
Engagement with Voter Concerns
Vance expressed, “I occasionally engage with individuals who express concerns like, ‘Well, you know, there are many issues. We distrust those responsible for counting our ballots, and thus, I am hesitant to engage in voting.’ Such an outlook is entirely contrary to what one ought to adopt.”
Attempting to reassure those harboring doubts about the electoral process, Vance emphasized that poll workers on election day are familiar faces within their communities. “Here’s an additional element that I believe is often overlooked: if you’re a local voter in a place such as Williamsport, those counting your ballots are frequently your neighbors. And, once more, in local elections, particularly within our smaller and rural settings, it’s your neighbors who are tallying these votes, it’s your neighbors who are responsible for counting these ballots.”
This article is adapted from the original content that appeared on abcnews.go.com