Senator JD Vance (R-OH) addressed a group of young voters at a Gen-Z town hall hosted by Turning Point Action in High Point, North Carolina. During his discussion, he cautioned students that they have “more to lose than anybody” if Vice President Kamala Harris emerges victorious in the 2024 election, stating that the consequences of her policies would disproportionately affect them. Vance emphasized the crucial role of younger voters in shaping their future, urging them to consider the ramifications of the upcoming election on significant issues such as foreign policy, illegal immigration, and the escalating costs of housing that directly impact their lives.
Vance contrasted Kamala Harris with former President Barack Obama, claiming that while he had concrete beliefs and clear governance strategies, Harris lacks those attributes. Vance argued that her perceived emptiness makes her susceptible to the whims of prevailing political trends in Washington, D.C. He pointed out that one of these trends is the potential misuse of young Americans as “cannon fodder for foreign military misadventures,” warning him about the threat of escalating regional conflicts or even a world war. He questioned whether students wanted a leader like Harris negotiating with major global figures such as Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, asserting that they would be better served by a figure like Donald Trump, who he believes would prioritize the interests of the United States.
The senator further elaborated on pressing issues significantly affecting young Americans, particularly the challenges of illegal immigration and its relationship to housing affordability. He claimed that allowing millions of illegal immigrants to enter the U.S. creates direct competition for jobs and drives down wages for American workers. Vance pointed to the increasing housing prices, particularly in North Carolina, as a consequence of not building enough homes, a situation he attributed in part to the influx of illegal immigrants. He provided a stark comparison between Trump’s potential regulatory policies, which he argued would facilitate housing development, and those of Harris, suggesting that under her leadership, the housing crisis would worsen.
Vance also illuminated the interconnectedness of illegal immigration and housing issues, arguing that excessive immigration will result in the accommodation of those who should be occupying homes meant for American citizens. He stated that an unchecked wave of illegal immigration leads to skyrocketing housing prices, further complicating the ability for young Americans to afford homes. Vance urged students to ponder their aspirations concerning work and family stability, stressing that they should advocate for policies that foster an environment where they can secure good jobs and eventually purchase homes.
As the discussion drew to a close, Vance made a direct appeal to the audience by imploring them to consider the significant impact their votes could have on their futures. He framed voting for Trump as a necessary step towards achieving a stronger economy, lower housing prices, and increased job opportunities. In contrast, he depicted Harris’s policies as detrimental, predicting they would lead to more conflict, poverty, and economic hardship for American workers, especially younger ones.
In his final remarks, Vance reinforced the notion that young Americans are at a critical juncture and have the most to lose from the current political landscape. He issued a warning about the fading prospects of the American Dream, arguing that if it were to vanish, it would be the younger generation that suffers the most. He ended on a note of urgency and responsibility, encouraging students to take action by voting in a way that aligns with their long-term interests and values, underscoring the importance of their involvement in shaping a favorable future.