JD Vance Criticizes Harris and D.C. ‘Ruling Class’ in Michigan Visit

Aug. 14 (UPI) — High costs of energy, food, and housing continue to burden the middle class, but former President Donald Trump aims to change that, according to his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance. During a campaign rally in Byron Center, Michigan, Vance spoke about improving the conditions for everyday Americans.

Vance held the rally outside Cordes Trucking Company, located about 13 miles south of Grand Rapids, engaging with Michigan voters and media for approximately 43 minutes.

He asserted that many areas, including Byron Center, have been abandoned by Washington’s elite. “You, my friends, have been betrayed,” he stated, accusing those in power of profiting from the nation’s struggles.

Vance criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for contributing to increased energy prices, claiming her backers have benefited from what he labeled “green energy scams.” He pointed to ineffective offshore wind farms and the push for Americans to buy electric vehicles made in China, which, according to him, has left working-class people in Michigan struggling.

The senator alleged that decisions made by Harris in the Senate have led to rising inflation and reckless fiscal policies, pointing out that prior to Trump’s presidency, the country lost around 60,000 manufacturing jobs under the two previous administrations. In contrast, Trump managed to open 12,000 manufacturing facilities during his tenure while keeping inflation relatively stable.

Vance remarked on how the media has touted Biden as a genius and now elevates Harris, drawing comparisons to historical figures. He argued that the policies enacted by the Biden-Harris administration, particularly their regulatory agenda, have resulted in significant energy price increases and an immense financial burden on families.

“We’re gonna get American energy from America and employ American workers,” Vance declared, proposing a more aggressive approach to domestic energy production.

He criticized the extended lockdowns imposed during the pandemic, stating that these measures have led to a surge in illegal immigration and have contributed to a climb in living costs, which he claims are now $1,000 more per month compared to when Trump was in office.

Vance posed the question to the audience: “Are you better off than you were four years ago?” urging them to consider bringing Trump back to the White House.

Highlighting economic changes since Biden assumed office, Vance noted that gas prices have soared by 50%, housing costs have doubled, and grocery prices have increased by 21% under the current administration.

He argued that Trump champions the interests of American workers, unlike Harris, who he claims supported trade agreements and electric vehicle mandates that benefit foreign manufacturers. “It’s time to say to Kamala Harris: ‘No, thank you. You are fired,’” Vance exclaimed.

Vance referred to Harris as “America’s border czar,” accusing her of creating opportunities for illegal immigration, which he believes has led to job losses for American workers. He stated that border security measures could be reinstated immediately under a Trump administration.

According to Vance, the vice president lacks a coherent vision for the country, relying on pre-written responses rather than engaging with reporters directly.

The senator asserted that Trump embodies hope and a comprehensive plan—for strengthening American energy, increasing food and housing affordability, and combating drug trafficking across the border. “Parents have lost their children to drugs and violence. We’ve been going backward for the last three and a half years,” he concluded.