U.S. must keep its allies closer, Pence asserts

Former Vice President Mike Pence remarked on Tuesday that indications of reduced U.S. support for long-standing partners have left him anxious about conflicts and turmoil reminiscent of one of the most catastrophic periods in global history.

“I believe we are existing in a very dangerous era where America needs to be robust, we must be prepared, we ought to stand firm with our allies, and it is vital to communicate to adversaries of freedom that — as President Kennedy articulated — we will shoulder any burden, pay any cost to guarantee the preservation of liberty,” Pence expressed. “We must remain steadfast, unwavering, and clearly convey to others that we will protect our interests and our allies globally, and then we have a chance at a peaceful future. Otherwise, I fear the latter half of the 21st century could resemble the initial half of the 20th century significantly more.”

Pence addressed attendees at the Kennedy School during an event organized by the Institute of Politics and facilitated by Archon Fung, head of the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation. This occurred months after Pence received the Profile in Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation in Boston for his role in certifying the 2020 election results while rioters surrounded the U.S. Capitol.

The U.S. is indispensable on the international stage because there is no other partner nation that other countries will follow, Pence stated, linking his recent presidential candidacy to his perception that Donald Trump and others in the GOP were withdrawing from global leadership.

“What propelled me into my brief yet impactful campaign back in 2023 was witnessing my old running mate and many party members deviating from those fundamental ideals and principles,” Pence noted. “If America isn’t at the helm of the free world, then the free world is without direction. There is no B team or backup nation ready to take that role.”

Specifically, Pence indicated that the U.S. should assist in positioning Ukraine more favorably to overcome Russia. Otherwise, he warned, the likelihood of a third world war could escalate.

“Anyone who believes that submitting to a greedy dictator prevents World War III needs to study World War II,” Pence remarked. “In my opinion, Vladimir Putin will not cease until he is stopped.”

Pence did not entirely sever ties with the current administration. He referenced his backing for lower taxes. He expressed skepticism regarding climate change solutions, asserting that climate responses should emerge from market-driven methods rather than regulatory frameworks. He also voiced support for the Supreme Court’s 2024 decision that nullified the Chevron doctrine, which had empowered regulators with significant authority in interpreting and addressing gaps in legislation passed by Congress.

Pence mentioned that his Christian beliefs have profoundly influenced his public life and that he holds that democracy necessitates a collective moral framework among the populace. He also upheld the First Amendment’s clauses on religious liberty.

He traced back to his faith his conviction that decorum in politics is not merely a politeness towards opponents but a crucial element allowing individuals to engage across divides.

“Democracy relies heavily on civility,” he stated. “When we approach one another civilly, even in disagreement, we create opportunities to discover common ground, not by compromising principles or core values, but by genuinely seeking ways to collaborate for the nation’s advancement.”

Fung expressed gratitude to Pence for his conduct on Jan. 6, 2021, when Pence stood firm against pressure from President Trump and the intruders at the Capitol while Congress convened to affirm Joe Biden’s electoral victory. He also inquired of the former vice president about his confidence in the resilience of U.S. institutions.

Reflecting on Jan. 6, Pence stated, “Many globally were observing, and I believe they recognized the durability and strength of our institutions.”

He added: “I am optimistic that in the future, Republicans and Democrats will remain true to those foundational principles and responsibilities.”