I mean, he is becoming a leading figure in American politics: J.D. Vance and his conservative nationalism July 18, 2024 This new approach has triggered debates and discussions all over the political spectrum. So what is this new brand of conservative nationalism that Vance advertises? Let’s dive into the details.
The Rise of J.D. Vance
J.D. Vance, who originally rose to fame with his 2016 memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” is also working on a book about the state of work in America that will be published by Harper next year. In the book, we read about the economic and social desperation of a new political class: white working-class Americans. It became a bestseller and catapulted Vance into fame. But he made a major political departure when he started supporting MAGA and became an unabashed Donald Trump superfan.
An Alternative to Conservative Nationalism
Conservative nationalism is an ideological concept which within the Western Bloc has been connected to each other, and became anti-communist by union amongst conservatives and often nationalist factions. Often focused on providing security of the nation’s borders, economic nationalism and preservation of traditions. But there is a twist to Vance’s brand of conservative nationalism they haven’t seen before2.
Vance’s Unique Approach
Vance’s conservative nationalism draws upon a grab bag of intellectual influences. He reads quite a bit around Catholic-inflected post-liberalism, as well as conservative populism and localist strands. His views on economic policies, social issues and foreign policy are shaped by these influences3.
Economic Policies
Vance supported pro-family and pro-worker economic policies He has called for tariffs and new incentives to encourage domestic manufacturing of products that support American jobs. His philosophy is about eradicating economic inequality and supporting regional economies. This is a departure from the traditional free-market conservatism4.
Social Issues
His view on social issues is conservative. He is in favor of gay conversion therapy, supports traditional family values and opposes same-sex marriage. And rails against the way we have rules allowing abortion. This list sound not unlike the cultural conservatism that flourishes in places like Viktor Orbán’s Hungary5.
Foreign Policy
A protectionist, isolationist when it comes to foreign policy. He is, in the main, skeptical of pur wars overseas and advocates a focus on domestic issues. That approach is consistent with the America First policies espoused by President Donald Trump.
Influences on Vance
Vance is a product of many influences — thinkers, writers. Among the more prominent is Patrick Deneen, a professor of political theory at Notre Dame. In his book Why Liberalism Failed, Deneen argues that the liberal emphasis on individuality and free markets has undermined those communal values. Vance has called Deneen a major influence and they have appeared on panels together.
His intellectual influences include the controversial neo-reactionary Curtis Yarvin. Yarvin calls for traditional hierarchies and a new end to modern democratic values. Vance is both friendly with and an influencer of Yarvin, which probably should not beFFECTS regarded as a totally neutral effect
The Impact of Vance’s Views
His version of conservative nationalism has been effective — particularly among voters who feel marginalized by globalization and economic shifts. His focus on jobs for Americans and traditional values resonates with a desired portion of the population. But his views have also been challenged by both right and leftwing figures.
Critics have claimed that Vance’s positions are too radical and would lead to further social splintering. The article’s authors also wonder whether that commitment to democratic principles is true, considering his company with such figures as Yarvin. However, despite this praise and criticism, Vance keeps climbing higher in the Republican party.
