“If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed.”—Adolf Hitler
Why the hell would you start off an article by quoting Hitler? Is it because of the irony of picking a title with a small, rather than big lie (I didn’t speed read, but rather speed listened)? Or perhaps because Hitler is in the very title? Regardless, I’m feeling a bit provocative, so it works.
I’m currently enjoying the slow Swedish summer in the countryside, in the middle of 5(!) weeks off. With fewer and fewer work emails coming in, and less and less happening besides regular family day trips, the downpour of rain of a century, and the odd injury of the kids from falling while trying to ride a bike without training wheels. That is, until I get a bit of downtime in the evenings and start reading about the news from across the pond. You know, over there, where it’s not all peace and quiet by any stretch.
Let’s see, we’ve had a complete trainwreck of a first debate, followed by an assassination attempt on the former president, followed by the other candidate and sitting president jumping ship, followed by conspiracy theories and congressional hearings. Yeah, not the calmness of the Swedish summer but perfect timing for when you get too dozed off in the hammock.
What I wanted to write about, though, is the VP pick by Trump that was announced at the RNC last week: Sen. JD Vance.
Who is JD Vance?
JD Vance, the author of “Hillbilly Elegy,” has made quite the journey from his memoir’s publication to being named Trump’s VP pick. If you’d told me a few years ago that the guy who wrote a heartfelt, raw account of growing up in a troubled Rust Belt family would be running for vice president, I would have … well not known who the guy was for one, but also probably laughed if I did. Yet, here we are.
Vance’s memoir is more than just a personal story; it’s a deep dive into the lives of the working-class Americans in the Midwest. His recounting of the struggles, the stoicism, and the deep-seated issues of his community resonates now more than ever, especially given the current political climate. The book’s themes of economic hardship, cultural decay, and personal resilience seem almost prophetic as they intersect with today’s political and social turmoil.
The Stoic Heart of the Midwest
Vance’s book isn’t just a memoir; it’s a love letter to a dying breed—the working-class communities of the Rust Belt. These are people who embody the stoicism and resilience of the greatest generation—those who endured wars, economic upheavals, and personal hardships with a stiff upper lip and a can-do spirit. Vance’s grandparents, who raised him amidst chaos, exemplify this spirit. Their Scotch-Irish heritage instilled in them a toughness that kept them going when everything else was falling apart.
But here’s the kicker: this same toughness also bred a dark side. Vance doesn’t shy away from exposing the deep-seated issues of addiction, poverty, and a fierce reluctance to seek help, which have become almost cultural trademarks.
Take for instance the story of Vance’s grandparents, that he lovingly and for cultural reasons (we learn) call Papaw and Mamaw, and how they got into a fight over a nonsensical thing with a store clerk after moving to Middletown, Ohio. You understand how a hillbilly from eastern Kentucky is true to his word that you never disrespect their children, but also how it can take completely irrational forms like lashing out at a fairly innocent member of staff at a small pharmacy store.
It’s this raw honesty that makes “Hillbilly Elegy” more than just a nostalgic look back—it’s a sobering wake-up call.
The Economic Guts of the Elegy
The economic narrative is as compelling as the personal one. The decline of manufacturing in the Midwest, the offshoring of jobs, and the subsequent hollowing out of communities are central to Vance’s story. It’s a narrative many know but few understand with the same depth and personal connection Vance brings. The erosion of economic stability has left not just pockets empty but lives in disarray. Vance’s climb from this environment to Yale Law School is not just impressive; it’s a testament to potential stifled by circumstance.
Here we have a man who has lived the American Dream’s flip side. And now, with his foray into politics as Trump’s VP pick, Vance brings this lived experience to the national stage.
Vance on the Political Stage
JD Vance, the hillbilly turned memoirist, turned politician. I felt that after the pick by Trump, and also a bit of hype by the guys over at the The All-In Podcast, I just had to know more about the guy. In Vance I found a voice that articulates the struggles and hopes of a largely overlooked demographic. This isn’t just about another politician riding the wave of populism; it’s about someone who has walked the walk, bringing a much-needed perspective to the often coastal-centric discourse in American politics.
Vance’s entry into the political arena isn’t just a new chapter in his life; it’s a significant moment for the Midwest. His ability to articulate the challenges of his community with clarity and empathy sets him apart. Whether you align with his political stance or not, his rise signals a broader recognition of the Midwest’s role in shaping America’s future.
So, what’s next?
Reading (or listening to I should say) “Hillbilly Elegy” in the context of Vance’s political ascent offers a unique perspective on both the man and the issues he champions. It’s a powerful narrative of resilience and redemption, of understanding and articulating the complex tapestry of American life.
JD Vance’s journey from the hills of Ohio to the heights of national politics is a narrative of hope, struggle, and the enduring quest for a better future. His memoir stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the complexities of cultural heritage, and the profound effects of economic change. As Vance steps into the political limelight, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse narratives that comprise the American experience.
In the end, Vance’s rise isn’t just about politics; it’s about giving voice to the voiceless and shedding light on the plight of the Midwest. “Hillbilly Elegy” is more than a memoir; it’s a call to understand and address the deep-seated issues facing America’s heartland. And maybe, just maybe, in recognizing our collective challenges, we can find a way to navigate a path forward that honors both our past and our potential.
In light of Biden stepping down and Kamala Harris potentially stepping in, with a new VP pick–it will be very interesting to see how things develop going forward and how JD will stand up in the debates. But to me he’s done very well on bringing the hillbilly life to
