Donald Trump Announces J.D. Vance as Vice Presidential Running Mate Amid Tense Election Build-Up

Former President Donald Trump selects Senator J.D. Vance as his Vice Presidential candidate for the 2024 US election. Trump confirmed the pick on social media. Vance, a venture capitalist and author, has a history of supporting Trump's policies and recently faced a traumatic assassination attempt at a campaign rally.

As the US presidential elections approach, former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has chosen Senator J.D. Vance as his Vice Presidential running mate. The confirmation came via a post on Truth Social.

"After lengthy deliberation and thought, considering the tremendous talents of many, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President is Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio," Trump stated on social media. Trump's endorsement elevates Vance, who has embraced the former president's populist ideology after years of criticism.

Vance, a venture entrepreneur and author of the best-selling memoir "Hillbilly Elegy," was elected to the US Senate in 2022 with Trump's support, according to CNN. "J.D. served our country in the Marine Corps, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ohio State University, and earned a degree from Yale Law School. His book, 'Hillbilly Elegy,' became a best-seller and a major film, championing the American working class," Trump further elaborated in his post.

"As Vice President, J.D. will continue to fight for our Constitution, stand with our troops, and help me MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN," Trump added, congratulating Vance and his family. Notably, Vance frequently votes in favor of Trump's positions in the Senate and opposed increased aid to Ukraine earlier this year.

Vance, born James David Bowman, grew up in Middletown, Ohio. He served in the Marine Corps and has had a successful career in technology and finance. He returned to Ohio in 2017 to continue his venture capital work. His wife, Usha Vance, is an attorney with a career in the legal field.

This announcement follows an assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania, where he was narrowly injured. The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks and reported that an investigation is ongoing.

Additionally, a judge dismissed the classified documents case against Trump, ruling that the appointment of special counsel Jack Smith violated the Constitution. Trump and his aide, Walt Nauta, have pleaded not guilty to related charges.

(With inputs from agencies.)