In a significant revelation highlighting a growing split within the Republican Party, former Vice President Mike Pence has declined to endorse his former colleague Donald Trump for the presidency, citing deviations from mainstream conservatism.
During an interview on the CBS News program “Face the Nation,” Pence outlined his decision not to support Trump’s reelection bid, emphasizing concerns beyond the events of January 6, 2021.
Mike Pence: “The reason why I won't endorse Donald Trump this year is because I see him departing from the mainstream conservative agenda that has defined the Republican Party over the last 40 years.” pic.twitter.com/Puf27AtyQU
— Republican Voters Against Trump (@AccountableGOP) March 17, 2024
Pence emphasized the paramount importance of upholding the Constitution and criticized Trump for veering away from core conservative principles.
“The commitment to the Constitution is of utmost importance, but it extends further,” Pence asserted, raising additional issues such as fiscal responsibility, the protection of life, and America’s role in global leadership.
Highlighting a specific instance, Pence noted Trump’s recent policy reversal on TikTok, signaling a broader departure from the administration’s previous tough stance on China.
“The sudden shift on TikTok, following our administration’s efforts to reshape America’s approach to China, is a key reason why I cannot endorse the current agenda advocated by Donald Trump,” Pence explained, as reported by The Hill.
Despite their differences and the events of January 6, Pence expressed forgiveness toward Trump, rooted in his Christian faith, while acknowledging significant disagreements, particularly regarding the Capitol riot.
“While the president and I have profound differences, it goes beyond January 6. His continued assertion that I had the authority to alter the election outcome is a fundamental disagreement. Yet, I’ve forgiven him in my heart, as my faith requires. However, I cannot endorse him this year due to his departure from mainstream conservative principles that have guided the GOP for decades,” Pence concluded.
