Former Vice President Mike Pence reaffirmed his reputation as a steadfast and traditional conservative amidst the lively Republican presidential primary. Addressing a gathering of legislators in Indianapolis, he focused extensively on his 2024 presidential campaign’s plan to restore states’ rights.
He also reiterated a stance he has publicly expressed multiple times regarding the indictments of former President Donald Trump. On this occasion, Pence included the recent Georgia indictment, which alleges a conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election results.
Pence stated, “The Georgia election was not stolen, and I did not have the authority to overturn the election on Jan. 6.”
At the National Conference of State Legislatures’ Legislative Summit, Pence received a warm welcome at a Republican lawmaker breakfast. He eloquently delved into the principles of federalism and the 10th Amendment. Additionally, he unveiled a comprehensive five-point plan aimed at bolstering state empowerment. This includes the elimination of entire federal departments and mandates.
Former Vice President Mike Pence captured the room’s attention as he entered, with a wave to the crowd during the NCSL Legislative Summit at the Indiana Convention Center on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, in Indianapolis.
Pence confidently stated, “If I assume the role of President of the United States, we will place our trust in states each and every day.”
Pence also showcased his versatility by offering an uncanny impression of former President George W. Bush, at the request of Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston, R-Fishers.
Recently, Pence made a public appearance at the Indiana State Fair, where he extensively discussed the economy and presented a critical perspective on Trump’s latest federal indictment.
Next week, Pence will take the national stage in the inaugural Republican presidential debate. Among the group of candidates meeting the donor threshold, Pence stands out as one of the eight. While former President Trump, also meeting the threshold, has yet to confirm his participation in the debate.
Under the banner of ‘Big government is back with a vengeance,’ Pence lauded his achievements during the Trump Administration, highlighting the removal of regulations at the Environmental Protection Agency and the federal register. He criticized President Joe Biden’s administration for its efforts to expand the federal government’s role in domains that Pence believes should fall under state jurisdiction, such as elections and land use.
He pointed to increased rules and regulations within the Securities and Exchange Commission, Biden’s reversal of healthcare waivers, and an executive order mandating federal agencies’ involvement in voter registration efforts.
Pence revealed a comprehensive plan to bolster state influence. Key proposals include the elimination of the Department of Education, with its $24 billion returned to the states. Complex requirements linked to federal highway formula funds would be eliminated, replaced by block grants to states without strings attached. Moreover, Affordable Care Act mandates would be replaced with flexible block grants for state healthcare policies. Additionally, some of the federal government’s 640 million acres of land would be sold to states, and unfunded federal mandates or regulations imposing costs on states would be prohibited.
Addressing inquiries, Pence deftly navigated a question about differentiating himself from Trump on the debate stage, should Trump participate. On the matter of potentially pardoning Trump if he were elected president and Trump convicted, Pence skillfully sidestepped the second question. For the first, Pence offered insights into his return to Indiana after his tenure at the White House, sharing details about his 5-acre pond and John Deere tractor. He expressed his desire for people to know him better, stating, “I’m well known but I don’t think I’m known well.”
During his time as vice president, he embraced a supportive role, ready to assist without overshadowing, as exemplified by the infamous fly during his debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. Pence eagerly anticipates the opportunity to present his fiscally conservative vision for the future, which he believes diverges from Trump’s vision.
“I hope he comes, I really do,” he remarked about Trump’s potential participation. “I’ve debated Donald Trump a thousand times. Just not with the cameras on.”
For more information, reach out to IndyStar state government and politics reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on Twitter @kayla_dwyer17.