Mike Pence, the Vice President of the United States, rejected a New York Times report on Sunday regarding a 'shadow campaign' by Republicans for his candidacy in the 2020 presidential elections. According to a Reuters report, Mr. Pence described the New York Times report as 'fake, ungrateful, and offensive' in a statement. He emphasized that 'the allegations made in this report are certainly false, and merely another attempt by the media to create division within the administration.' The New York Times claimed on Saturday, August 5, that some Republicans have initiated movements to form a 'shadow campaign' for the 2020 presidential elections that does not involve President Donald Trump. The newspaper stated that several of Mike Pence's advisors have already informed some Republican donors that if Donald Trump does not run for president in 2020, Mr. Pence will take action to run. The New York Times also claimed that although it is customary for vice presidents to have political agendas, Mike Pence has established an independent power base, which includes a fundraising group known as the 'Great America Committee.' However, Mr. Pence rejected this report, insisting that he is fully focused on advancing Donald Trump's agenda and his re-election in the 2020 elections. On Sunday, Kellyanne Conway, a senior advisor to Mr. Trump, also told ABC News that Trump's plan is to be a two-term president and added that she is not concerned about Mike Pence independently forming a 'shadow campaign.' Ms. Conway stated that 'it is entirely true that the Vice President is preparing for the 2020 elections, but for re-election to the Vice Presidency.' She described Mr. Pence as a 'completely loyal and dedicated' individual who is an extraordinarily 'effective and active' Vice President. Earlier on Saturday, two officials from Mr. Pence's office also denied the New York Times report. In this context, Mike Pence's spokesperson tweeted that the Vice President has no plans to run in the 2020 elections, and such claims are nothing but 'fantasy' from the New York Times. Mr. Pence's Chief of Staff also tweeted on Saturday night that the New York Times published a completely false claim in a fabricated article.
Pence Calls Reports of His Candidacy in 2020 Elections 'Fake and Offensive'
Mike Pence has denied a New York Times report suggesting he is preparing a shadow campaign for the 2020 presidential elections, calling it fake and offensive. He insists he is focused on supporting Donald Trump's re-election. This denial highlights the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party regarding Trump's candidacy.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Mike Pence has publicly denied a New York Times report suggesting he is preparing a shadow campaign for the 2020 presidential elections, calling it fake and offensive. He insists his focus remains on supporting Donald Trump's re-election efforts.
- Pence's advisors reportedly informed Republican donors about a potential candidacy if Trump does not run.
- Pence's Chief of Staff and spokesperson have both denied the claims from the New York Times.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
In U.S. politics, vice presidents often position themselves for future elections, and tensions can arise when loyalty to the president is questioned. The 2020 elections are significant as they will determine the future direction of U.S. policy.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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