Former Vice President Mike Pence recently praised House Speaker Mike Johnson for his leadership in pushing forward aid packages for Ukraine, Israel, and U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific.
In an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Pence highlighted Johnson’s decision to proceed with these bills despite facing serious opposition from some members within his own party and the potential threat of losing his leadership position.
Pence described Johnson’s actions as demonstrating “moral courage,” particularly given the narrow majority with which he is working. This situation underscores the internal divisions within the Republican Party, especially between traditional foreign policy approaches and the newer, more isolationist tendencies that have emerged in recent years.
Ex-US Vice President, Mike Pence (Credits: ABC)
The interview also touched on broader shifts within the Republican Party, with Pence addressing questions about the erosion of Reagan-era ideologies.
He attributed the rise of what he calls “Republican isolationism” to recent challenges, including border security issues, inflation, and global conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Pence argued that this shift reflects a reactive posture from some Republicans who feel overwhelmed by domestic problems and skeptical about engaging internationally.
Mike Pence (Credits: CNN)
Pence countered these isolationist views by invoking America’s historical role as a global leader capable of multitasking—securing its borders, reviving its economy, and maintaining a strong international presence.
He reflected on his administration’s actions, such as military build-ups, supporting allies, confronting adversaries, and making targeted military interventions, which he views as exemplars of active and effective American leadership on the world stage.
