JD Vance Courts Republican Jewish Coalition at 2028 Test as Tucker Carlson Ties Draw Fire
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Aug 31
JD Vance Courts Republican Jewish Coalition at 2028 Test as Tucker Carlson Ties Draw Fire
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Aug 31
Summary
Las Vegas hosts JD Vance on Monday night at the Republican Jewish Coalition summit, where the vice president chose to appear despite internal skepticism and asked that his remarks be closed to the media.
The visit is meant as an olive branch to pro-Israel Republicans who have criticized Vance’s record on Israel and Iran as he faces early resistance to a potential 2028 presidential run.
Tucker Carlson emerged as the sharpest flashpoint: attendees booed references to Vance’s friendship with him, and coalition leaders said backing or rejecting Carlson has become a key test for Jewish GOP activists.
Allies argue Vance’s criticism of Netanyahu and role in Iran diplomacy broadly track Donald Trump’s own positions, though Vance has refused to disavow Carlson even after Trump distanced himself.
Even with figures like Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz preferred by some in the room, attendees said most Jewish Republicans would still likely rally behind Vance if he becomes the nominee.