How JD Vance Could Become the Most Powerful Vice President in American History
On January 20, 2025, JD Vance will be sworn in as the 50th vice president of the United States, becoming the third-youngest to hold the office, following John Breckinridge and Richard Nixon.
His rise from the hills of Kentucky to U.S. Senator from Ohio represents a classic American success story. From poverty to privilege, anti-Trump to pro-Trump, and civilian to soldier, Vance’s multifaceted journey has sparked questions about what kind of vice president he will become.
Many believe Vance could be the most powerful vice president in U.S. history. By leveraging his intellect, political connections, and ties to Silicon Valley, Vance is well-positioned to redefine the role.
His rise mirrors that of Lyndon B. Johnson, another vice president who climbed from modest roots to become a major political force. Like Johnson, Vance has built strong alliances, demonstrated ambition, and developed a strategic mindset.
Johnson’s rise to power relied on influential allies like Herman Brown, Speaker Sam Rayburn, and Senator Richard Russell. He used dinners and informal gatherings to strengthen political ties, enabling him to wield influence as vice president under John F. Kennedy.
Vance’s path follows a similar pattern. His connection to tech billionaire Peter Thiel, whom he met at Yale Law School, was a pivotal moment in his career. Vance later co-founded Narya Capital with backing from Thiel and received a $15 million investment from Thiel for his 2022 Senate campaign.
This partnership embedded Vance in Silicon Valley’s elite donor network, giving him financial and political capital.
Beyond financial support, Vance’s network extends to political heavyweights. In the Senate, he has allied with key Republicans like Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.).
He also maintains strong ties with Donald Trump Jr., Marco Rubio, and New Right figures like Patrick Deneen and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts. This network spans both the Republican establishment and the emerging New Right, placing Vance at the center of a growing conservative coalition.
Unlike Lyndon B. Johnson, who struggled to gain influence in Kennedy’s White House, Vance is already a key figure in Trump’s inner circle. As vice president, Vance will likely wield significant power, especially as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell retires, creating a leadership vacuum.
Vance has the political acumen and financial resources to step into this role. By presiding over Senate sessions, mastering procedural rules, and brokering policy deals, he could position himself as a crucial power broker between Congress and the White House.
Vance’s greatest strength is his role as a bridge between Trump and the Senate. Trump, known for erratic decision-making, will rely on Vance to manage Cabinet appointments and negotiate with Congress.
With the Senate divided by narrow margins, Trump’s reliance on Vance’s network to secure confirmations will be essential. Unlike Johnson, who was kept out of Kennedy’s inner circle, Vance is a central figure in Trump’s team, giving him direct access to the White House’s key decision-makers.
Another key factor in Vance’s potential power is his connection to Silicon Valley donors. His close ties with Peter Thiel and other influential venture capitalists grant him access to critical fundraising channels.
This makes him a “kingmaker” within the Republican Party, capable of steering GOP fundraising for campaigns. This financial power, coupled with his political influence, positions Vance as one of the most powerful vice presidents in modern history.
One of Vance’s most significant advantages is that he is the only person in Trump’s inner circle who cannot be fired. If Trump becomes erratic, self-destructive, or politically toxic, Vance could use his position to protect the administration’s stability.
If necessary, he could even invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office. While this scenario may seem extreme, it is not implausible given Trump’s past behavior. During Trump’s first term, he was impeached twice, and his administration was plagued by internal strife.
If similar chaos unfolds, Vance’s close relationships with key Cabinet members and the Senate could allow him to seize control of the administration.
Beyond internal White House politics, Vance could influence U.S. legislation. His ties to Silicon Valley, the New Right, and traditional conservatives enable him to bridge divides and push for policy changes. He could play a crucial role in key GOP priorities like immigration reform, tech regulation, and debt reduction.
His influence could be pivotal in tackling issues like America’s national debt and border security. Unlike ceremonial vice presidents, Vance would act as a driving force behind policy and legislation.
Ultimately, JD Vance stands at a crossroads. With a background that bridges rural America, Silicon Valley, and the Senate, he holds a unique blend of power that few vice presidents have ever possessed.
His relationships span conservative intellectuals, venture capital tycoons, and key GOP power players. As vice president, Vance can choose to build coalitions that bridge divides or consolidate power for himself. His decision will not only shape his legacy but also the future of American politics.
