Rockbridge Network: The Silicon Valley-Backed Political Engine Driving JD Vance and Trump

Rockbridge Network, co-founded by JD Vance, aims to influence U.S. politics through a centrally controlled network of right-wing political groups backed by significant tech investors. The organization has a budget nearing $75 million for 2024, and plans to impact the upcoming presidential election through voter turnout operations, media funding, and churchgoer activism.

Before JD Vance's rapid ascendancy as a vice presidential candidate, he co-founded Rockbridge Network, a donor organization with Silicon Valley backing aimed at financing right-wing news stories, voter turnout operations, and election polls. The goal: to advance U.S. President Donald Trump's brand of nationalism, according to previously uncovered documents.

Founded in 2019, Rockbridge Network orchestrates a network of right-wing political groups, supported by the same tech investors who propelled Vance's political career. Internal documents reviewed by Reuters reveal the organization's ambitions, including a $75 million budget for 2024, aimed at swaying the November presidential election.

Rockbridge exemplifies how Trump's selection of Vance as his running mate could empower a new cadre of Republican businessmen—prominent tech investors eager to reduce SEC oversight and deregulate cryptocurrencies and artificial intelligence. With financial backing from influential figures like Peter Thiel, Rockbridge underscores Silicon Valley's increasing grip on conservative politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)