Vance Declines to Endorse Netanyahu, Cites Focus on U.S. Midterms
Vice President JD Vance stated his priority is endorsing American candidates, differentiating his approach from former President Trump's strong backing of the Israeli Prime Minister.
Vice President JD Vance announced he will not endorse Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reelection bid, stating his focus remains on supporting U.S. candidates in the upcoming midterm elections.
During a Monday interview with Mark Halperin on "2WAY Tonight," Vance explained that while former President Donald Trump has offered Netanyahu his "Complete and Total Endorsement," he intends to remain uninvolved in Israeli politics. "I endorse American candidates, and that’s where I’m focused on in the midterms. So I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections," Vance said.
Vance clarified that his decision does not signal opposition to Netanyahu, emphasizing, "I’m not anti-endorsing him. I’m not pro-endorsing him. I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections."
The development follows Trump's public declaration of support for Netanyahu, issued via Truth Social. Trump praised the Israeli prime minister as a critical ally and partner in confronting Iran. "Bibi Netanyahu has been a Great Warrior Prime Minister, and an even greater Partner for Peace in combatting the Islamic Republic of Iran," Trump stated in his endorsement. He added that Netanyahu "will never let you down."
Netanyahu responded to Trump's endorsement, calling it "extraordinary" and thanking the former president for his support. "Israel has never had a greater friend in the White House. Together we will never let Iran's regime get nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said.
Vance's stance on foreign endorsements contrasts with a reported instance earlier this year when he campaigned in Hungary alongside then-Prime Minister Viktor Orban shortly before Orban's reelection bid concluded. The White House had not immediately responded to requests for comment.