Vance Defends Trump Policies on Iran War

Vice President JD Vance reassured Americans during a White House briefing that the ongoing war with Iran will not become a 'forever war.' Speaking in place of press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who is on maternity leave, Vance defended President Donald Trump's policies amid growing speculation about potential successors for the 2028 election. The briefing room has emerged as an informal audition stage for those eyeing higher office, with Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio drawing attention for their performances.

Vance emphasized that any escalation with Iran would serve long-term U.S. security interests if a diplomatic solution is not reached. 'This is not a forever war,' he stated. 'We're going to take care of business and come home.' The conflict, which began on February 28, has disrupted global oil trade and sent U.S. gas prices about 50% higher, raising concerns among Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll published on Tuesday showed that Trump's presidential approval rating had fallen to nearly its lowest level since he returned to the White House. The poll also indicated that 34% of Americans have a favorable view of Vance and 33% said the same of Rubio, down from January 2025 when 42% viewed Vance favorably. Despite both men downplaying their ambitions for 2028, Trump has continued to fuel succession talk, even polling guests at a recent Rose Garden dinner on their preferences.

Vance also addressed questions about the Justice Department's new $1.776 billion 'anti-weaponization fund,' which is intended to compensate those who say they were unfairly targeted by previous administrations. He declined to rule out payments to some of the Jan. 6 rioters who assaulted police officers, stating that applications would be evaluated on a 'case-by-case basis.' This stance has drawn criticism from ethics watchdogs and former Justice Department officials, who view the fund as an abuse of power.