On Wednesday, former Vice President Mike Pence took to social media to praise President Trump’s “strong” address before a joint session of Congress, expressing his approval of the speech’s key points.
In a post on X, Pence congratulated Trump, stating, “Congratulations to President @realDonaldTrump on a strong Joint Address to Congress last night.” He highlighted Trump’s commitment to continued negotiations with Ukraine and his firm stance on securing the U.S. borders, which are crucial issues for many Republican voters. Pence also noted that Trump’s support for the U.S. Armed Forces was a positive element of the speech.
The former vice president further lauded the news that the U.S. had apprehended a key figure involved in the 2021 bombing at Kabul’s Abbey Gate. Trump had labeled this individual a “top terrorist,” and Pence called the capture “welcome news” for the safety and security of the nation.
While Pence acknowledged that there would be ample time to debate policies like tariffs, tax cuts, and government spending, he offered a simple, yet sincere, “Well Done Mr. President” in recognition of Trump’s address.
Despite their past differences, particularly after the 2020 election, when Pence faced intense pressure from Trump to take actions that went beyond his constitutional role, Pence’s message emphasized a more constructive tone. In the years following the Capitol riot, tensions between Pence and Trump reached new heights, with many Trump supporters targeting Pence for his refusal to overturn the election results.
Though Pence has refrained from endorsing Trump for the 2024 election, their brief interaction at the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter in January showed a more cordial moment between the two. Pence shared that he offered his congratulations to Trump, who responded with a brief, but polite, “Thanks, Mike.” This exchange, while short, reflected the evolving dynamic between the two Republican leaders.