The tech billionaire fueling JD Vance’s political rise
Jul 17, 2024
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Brookings Institution senior fellow Darrell West discusses J.D. Vance's political rise fueled by tech billionaire Peter Thiel. They explore Thiel's financial support, Vance's views on big tech, and the potential impact of their relationship on future elections.
J.D. Vance's political rise was fueled by tech billionaire Peter Thiel's substantial financial support and influence.
Thiel's connections in the tech industry could significantly impact fundraising dynamics for the Republican Party and influence tech policy ideologies.
Deep dives
Relationship Between J.D. Vance and Peter Thiel
J.D. Vance's significant rise, from a Yale Law School graduate to the Republican nominee for vice president, is closely intertwined with his relationship with Peter Thiel. Starting from work in venture capital to being hired by Thiel for his venture capital fund, Vance's journey to U.S. Senate candidacy was marked by Thiel's substantial financial support and influence. Thiel's libertarian views align with Vance's stance on tech policies, creating a significant bond that could impact their future roles in the White House.
Peter Thiel's Influence and Political Support
Peter Thiel's backing of J.D. Vance not only financially supported his Senate campaign but also positioned him as a key figure in Vance's political journey. Thiel's connections extend to the top echelons of political power, potentially influencing a second Trump administration through his relationships with tech billionaires like Elon Musk. The substantial financial contributions from Thiel and Vance's tech connections could significantly impact fundraising dynamics for the Republican Party.
J.D. Vance's Tech Landscape and Political Stance
J.D. Vance's complex relationship with the tech sector is reflected in his positions on government regulation, tech innovation, and antitrust policies. While sharing libertarian ideals with Peter Thiel, Vance has criticized tech giants, called for tougher antitrust enforcement, and advocated for governmental intervention in specific areas. His presence on the Republican ticket opens up avenues for tech fundraising, potentially shifting traditional Silicon Valley support towards the GOP and influencing tech policy ideologies.
In just over a decade, Republican J.D. Vance has risen from law school graduate to best-selling author to U.S. senator to vice presidential nominee. And fueling the ascent has been tech billionaire Peter Thiel. On POLITICO Tech, Brookings Institution senior fellow Darrell West joins host Steven Overly to explain this fortuitous relationship, and the impact it could have on Election Day and beyond.