In a surprising turn of events, former Vice President Mike Pence announced the suspension of his 2024 presidential campaign during his address at the Republican Jewish Coalition convention in Las Vegas. While Pence expressed no regrets about his decision, his struggle to connect with Republican primary voters, particularly in the wake of failing to qualify for the upcoming GOP primary debate, has been evident. It’s worth noting that Pence’s political career had been marred by his virulent anti-LGBTQ+ stance.
Despite Pence’s campaign sources suggesting that he might not endorse any other Republican candidate, Donald Trump, the still-considered Republican frontrunner, called on his former vice president to back his candidacy. Trump emphasized his successful presidency and the role he played in elevating Pence to the vice presidency, stating, “People in politics can be very disloyal.”
Pence had been Trump’s vice-presidential pick in 2016, a strategic move to garner support from Evangelical Christian voters. While Pence remained loyal during his tenure as vice president, their relationship soured after Pence refused to defy constitutional norms by refusing to certify the 2020 election results on January 6, 2021, an act beyond his authority. This refusal led to a chaotic insurrection at the Capitol, during which rioters chanted “hang Mike Pence.”
Furthermore, it has been revealed that Trump suggested approval of these chants, and in an interview, he seemed to defend the threats on Pence’s life. Throughout the current Republican primary, Trump has consistently attacked Pence, while Pence has maintained his position that Trump’s belief in overturning the 2020 election results was incorrect.
In a dramatic twist in the Republican presidential race, Pence’s campaign suspension and Trump’s call for his endorsement underscore the evolving dynamics within the party, with the issue of LGBTQ+ rights never far from the spotlight.