KATHMANDU: J.D. Vance, an Ohio senator, has been chosen by former US President Donald Trump to be his running mate in the November presidential election. Trump praised Vance as the most qualified candidate for vice president when he made his announcement on his Truth Social media platform. At the party's convention in Milwaukee, Republican delegates enthusiastically backed Vance, a Yale Law School graduate and veteran of the Marine Corps.

Vance's strong adherence to Trump's views has drawn criticism from current President Joe Biden, who called him a "clone of Trump on the issues." Vance's alleged endorsement of Trump's divisive acts, such as those connected to the Capitol brawl on January 6, which Trump has played down, was highlighted by Biden's campaign.

With his appointment, Vance has made a major shift inside the Republican Party, closely aligning himself with the hard-line immigration and social program ideas of Trumpism. Though Vance had previously criticized Trump, he has now turned into a fervent supporter of his policies, which are especially popular with Midwest working-class voters.

Senator Elizabeth Warren and other Democrats have expressed alarm about possible changes to Medicare and social security in the event of a Trump-Vance presidency. They contend that these policies may have a negative impact on the availability of healthcare for millions of Americans including elderly.

Vance would represent a generational transition in American politics by becoming one of the youngest vice presidents in history if elected. He is running alongside Trump, which highlights the latter's plan of broadening his appeal as the campaign heats up, especially with younger and working-class voters.