Senator JD Vance engaged in pointed humor targeting both California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Mike Pence during a recent appearance on Bill Maher's show. Vance was on the program to promote his new book, "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith."
Mah Maher, a self-described atheist and lapsed Catholic, drew a parallel between his book and Newsom's by suggesting both were upfront about religion. When asked if he would read Newsom's memoir, "Young Man in a Hurry," Vance quipped, "People bought my book is the difference," drawing laughter from the audience. Newsom's book focuses on his personal history, including his parents' divorce and struggles with dyslexia, rather than politics.
Vance also playfully questioned Pence's decision to appear on Maher's show, asking, "What did you talk about with Mike Pence – sex, drugs and rock n' roll?" The remark alluded to Pence's famously stoic public persona and elicited a strong positive reaction from the audience.
The interview touched upon policy disagreements, including Vance's views on ICE's operations in U.S. cities and the Iran nuclear deal. Vance also agreed to appear on Maher's "Club Random" podcast, though he stated he would not participate in the show's tradition of smoking marijuana.
During an "Overtime" segment with other guests, including Senator Raphael Warnock and comedian Larry Wilmore, Maher pressed Vance on the issue of election integrity. Vance reiterated his belief that the 2020 election was influenced by misinformation spread by major technology companies. When Maher suggested Vance's vote for the 2028 election was "in play" and asked if he would concede, Vance did not commit to doing so.
"Communion" is Vance's second book, following his 2016 bestseller "Hillbilly Elegy." The new work chronicles his spiritual journey from Protestantism to atheism and his eventual conversion to Catholicism. The release of "Communion" comes as speculation continues about potential Republican presidential candidates for 2028, with Vance often mentioned as a possibility. Newsom has also released a book recently, a common step for potential presidential hopefuls.