During George W. Bush’s first term, Dick Cheney played an influential role. Unlike Cheney, JD Vance is much younger than the president he serves. However, his presence in American politics raises questions about who truly leads the White House.
An Episode That Sparked Uncertainty
At an event with Volodymyr Zelensky, Vance was so dominant that he overshadowed Donald Trump. His gesture of closing the discussion with a pat on the president’s arm left a striking image. Many wonder whether he acts as a vice president or as the de facto leader.
The Administration’s Ideologue
Vance presents himself as Trump’s intellectual interpreter. In a speech before the tech industry, he defended a contradictory economic policy. He claimed that regulation stifles innovation but also that protectionism fosters it. His ability to justify inconsistencies strengthens his profile as a strategist.

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A Voice of His Own on Global Affairs
At the Munich Security Conference, Vance stated that Europe’s greatest threat was not Russia or China but internal factors. His stance seemed more like an academic reflection than an official White House statement, raising doubts about his alignment with Trump.
Missteps That Reveal Independence
When discussing European forces in Ukraine, his dismissive tone reflected a personal view rather than an official position. His comments in a private chat about the operation against the Houthis also suggested that he sees himself as having the authority to question presidential decisions.
Intellectual Influence and Contradictions
Since his book Hillbilly Elegy, Vance has demonstrated his ability to find logic in contradictory ideas. His view of Trump appears to follow the same pattern: interpreting chaos as a form of political wisdom.
Preparing for the Next Step?
During his 2022 Senate campaign, speculation arose that Vance would soon seek new challenges. Now, his growing prominence and independent stance suggest that his ambitions go beyond the vice presidency.