The Trump team is embattled in controversy. The battle lines are being drawn.
And now J.D. Vance went on Fox News to make these surprising comments about President Trump.
VP Vance Surprises Fox’s Bret Baier With Answer To Question About President Trump
Vice President JD Vance declared on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier that President Donald J. Trump has emerged as the de facto leader of the Democratic Party. Speaking with confidence and a touch of humor, Vance pointed to the Democrats’ relentless opposition to Trump as evidence of his outsized influence over their agenda. Since Trump’s commanding victory in November 2024, the Democratic Party has found itself adrift, grappling with dwindling voter approval and a leadership vacuum that leaves them tethered to the very man they claim to oppose.
The Democrats’ obsession with countering Trump has defined their post-election strategy—or lack thereof. With no clear figurehead or unifying message, the party has struggled to connect with Americans. During his interview with Baier, Vance was asked if Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez could step into the role of the Democrats’ new face. His response was sharp and playful: “President AOC, the stuff of nightmares, Bret, thank you. You’ve ruined my sleep for this evening,” Vance teased. “I don’t know.” His quip captured the unease many feel about the prospect of a far-left figure leading a party already on shaky ground.
Vance’s remarks cut to the heart of the Democrats’ dilemma. When Baier pressed him on whether he considers the Democratic Party’s future leadership, Vance doubled down on his provocative claim. “I think to the extent the Democrats have a leader, Donald J. Trump is the leader of the Democratic Party,” Vance said. “Because they’re just against everything that he does. Who could possibly disagree with rebuilding American manufacturing and ensuring these steelworkers have higher wages and better jobs?” His words resonate with Trump’s base, who see the president as a champion of working-class Americans, pushing policies that prioritize economic strength and national pride.
The Democrats’ reflexive opposition to Trump, Vance argued, reveals their lack of vision. “But any time Donald Trump does anything, they have this emotional response, they have to be against. Who could disagree with deporting millions of illegal aliens, many of whom are violent criminals? But they do, they have,” Vance added. This critique aligns with the sentiments of millions who view Trump’s agenda—focused on secure borders and economic revitalization—as common-sense governance. Yet, the Democrats’ knee-jerk resistance has left them scrambling to define themselves beyond being the anti-Trump party.
Polls tell a grim story for Democrats. A March 2025 CNN/SSRS survey revealed the party’s approval rating had plummeted to a historic low of 29%, a staggering 20-point drop since January 2021. More than 30% of respondents couldn’t name a single Democrat who embodies the party’s core values. Among those who did, Ocasio-Cortez led with a mere 10%, followed by Kamala Harris at 9%, Bernie Sanders at 8%, and Hakeem Jeffries at 6%. These numbers suggest a party in disarray, unable to rally behind a leader or a coherent platform, while Trump’s influence looms large.
Vance’s analysis frames Trump as the gravitational force pulling the Democrats into his orbit. “Whenever Donald J. Trump does something, they react negatively to it. They don’t have real leadership,” Vance said. His confidence in the GOP’s position is palpable, as he looks ahead to the political landscape of 2028.
“I think it’s why I’m not too concerned about 2028 because if I wake up in a fantasy world where the Democrats actually have constructive ideas about how to govern this country, that’ll actually be a good thing. But in the world that we actually live in, where they’re just anti-Trump about everything, the politics of 2028 will take care of themselves.” This optimism reflects the strength of Trump’s movement, which continues to shape the national conversation.
The Democrats’ leadership void has sparked speculation about potential contenders for 2028. Names like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Ocasio-Cortez have surfaced as possible presidential candidates, with the 2026 midterms serving as a critical testing ground. Yet, their ability to unify a fractured party remains uncertain. Trump’s dominance, both in policy and persona, has set a high bar that Democrats seem ill-equipped to challenge. His focus on manufacturing, job creation, and border security has struck a chord with voters, leaving his opponents struggling to articulate an alternative.
Vance’s comments come at a time when Trump’s influence extends beyond the Republican Party, casting a long shadow over his rivals. The Democrats’ failure to move beyond their anti-Trump rhetoric has ceded the narrative to a president who thrives on action and results. As the GOP builds on its 2024 momentum, the Democrats face an uphill battle to regain relevance. Their inability to name a leader or craft a positive agenda only amplifies Trump’s stature as the defining figure in American politics.
Looking ahead, the Democrats’ path to recovery appears fraught with challenges. With Trump setting the tone on issues like trade, immigration, and economic growth, the opposition must find a way to break free from his influence. For now, Vance’s assertion rings true: Trump’s leadership, whether the Democrats admit it or not, is steering the course of both parties. As the nation gears up for the next round of elections, one thing is clear—Trump’s grip on the political stage is as strong as ever.
Vance Eyes 2028 Run with Trump’s Blessing
JD Vance, the dynamic Vice President and Ohio’s own, is quietly positioning himself for a potential 2028 presidential run, with President Donald Trump’s nod of approval. The 40-year-old senator-turned-VP has skyrocketed through Republican ranks, and his recent comments suggest he’s ready to carry the MAGA torch forward. In a Fox & Friends interview, Vance kept his cards close but didn’t rule out a bid, saying, “if we do a good job, the politics take care of themselves.” His focus, he insists, is on delivering for Americans now, with Trump’s agenda front and center.
Trump, at 78, shows no signs of stepping back from the political stage. Reports indicate he’s mulling over ways to stay influential, even toying with the idea of a third term, though the 22nd Amendment stands in his way. Legal experts note the constitutional roadblocks, pointing out that the 12th Amendment could complicate any attempt by Trump to serve in an executive role, stating, “no person constitutionally ineligible to the office of the President shall be eligible to that of Vice President.” Still, Trump’s larger-than-life presence looms over the GOP’s future, and he’s clearly grooming Vance as a potential successor.
Vance’s rise is no accident. His loyalty to Trump and knack for connecting with everyday Americans have made him a natural fit to lead the next chapter of the movement. Speaking to NBC News, Trump hinted at Vance headlining a 2028 ticket, suggesting, “Vance could lead a future Republican ticket.” Such a move would keep Trump’s vision alive, with the president potentially serving as a key advisor. The idea of a Vance-led administration with Trump’s guiding hand is already stirring excitement among supporters eager to see the MAGA legacy endure.
For now, Vance is laser-focused on the present, emphasizing there’s “so much to do” before 2028 talks solidify. His work alongside Trump is winning over hearts and minds, proving he’s more than just a sidekick.
Stay tuned to the DC Daily Journal.
