New York Times Publishes JD Vance's Past Anti-Trump Texts and Emails to Transgender Classmate

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
27/07/2024 22h29

In a recent development, The New York Times has released a series of years-old texts and emails sent by JD Vance, the vice-presidential pick, to a transgender classmate. The publication highlights Vance's previous criticisms of former President Donald J. Trump, as well as his acceptance of his LGBTQ classmate. The emails shed light on Vance's shifting stance on Trump and his evolving views on social issues.

The article, published by The New York Times, includes excerpts from Vance's correspondence with Sofia Nelson, a transgender individual who was their classmate at Yale Law School. These messages not only reveal Vance's disdain for Trump but also his frustration with law enforcement during that period. They exemplify Vance's willingness to accept Nelson, indicating a cultural tolerance on his part.

The collection of emails span from 2014 to 2017, a period when Vance and Nelson were friends. However, their friendship apparently soured in 2021 when Vance publicly expressed support for an Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care for minors.

Sofia Nelson, who is now a public defender in Detroit, expressed hope that the publication of these emails would inform voters' opinions of Vance as the GOP vice-presidential candidate. The first excerpt published by The Times includes Vance's remarks about police following the death of Michael Brown in 2014. Vance expressed his frustration, stating, "I hate the police. Given the number of negative experiences I've had in the past few years, I can't imagine what a black guy goes through."

The article also showcases Vance's anti-Trump comments in response to Nelson's concerns about Trump's rhetoric, particularly its impact on Muslim citizens. Vance expressed outrage at Trump's remarks but also acknowledged the existence of people who believe and follow "crazy s---," along with demagogues who exploit such beliefs.

The publication includes a screenshot of an email where Vance apologizes to Nelson for mistakenly referring to them as a lesbian in his bestselling book "Hillbilly Elegy." Vance explains that the description came from a place of ignorance when he initially started writing and sincerely apologizes if they were offended.

The Times further reveals additional anti-Trump emails from Vance, including one where he expresses concern about the potential negative consequences for black individuals if more white people vote for Trump. In another email, Vance describes Trump as a "morally reprehensible human being."

When asked for comment, a spokesperson for Vance responded, stating that it was unfortunate that private conversations between friends from a decade ago were leaked to the New York Times. They emphasized that Vance values his friendships across the political spectrum and that his views began to change as a result of becoming a parent and starting a family. Despite disagreements, Vance expressed care for Nelson and wished them the very best.

Vance has previously addressed his past anti-Trump comments, openly admitting his initial skepticism about Trump's capabilities and later praising him as a great president. Vance's change of heart and his active efforts to secure Trump a second term have been a central focus of his recent interviews.

As the release of Vance's past texts and emails adds to the ongoing coverage of the vice-presidential candidate, it remains to be seen how this revelation will influence public opinion and the upcoming election.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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