J.D. Vance on Trump, Addiction, and Family | November 2020 Re-Release
Digest
This episode of The Megan Kelly Show features a past interview with JD Vance, author of "Hillbilly Elegy," who was recently named Donald Trump's vice presidential nominee. The episode delves into the 2020 election, exploring the anger of Trump voters and the perceived hypocrisy of the establishment press and institutions towards them. Vance argues that the narrative of Trump voters as "deplorables" or "Nazis" is harmful and divisive, and that it creates a sense of submission rather than equality. He challenges the notion that Trump voters are driven by racial resentment, arguing that the way racial issues are discussed in modern "woke" politics creates a disconnect between elites and the rest of the country. Vance also discusses the language of identity politics and how it can alienate voters, pointing to the use of the term "Latinx" as an example of how elites try to impose their own language on minority groups. He highlights the surprising shift of Latino voters towards Trump, suggesting that Democrats need to reconsider their approach to these issues. Vance expresses concern about Biden's potential reversal on Trump's policies towards China, particularly regarding trade and manufacturing. He argues that a softer stance on China coupled with stricter environmental regulations on American businesses could lead to stagnation in American manufacturing and harm the working class. He also discusses the culture of hopelessness that exists in some working-class communities, particularly in the Rust Belt, arguing that the "learn to code" message often given to those who lose manufacturing jobs is unrealistic and ignores the complex factors that contribute to this hopelessness. Vance and Kelly discuss the impact of identity politics on the American Dream, with Vance arguing that the messaging from those obsessed with identity often undermines individual agency and promotes the idea that the American Dream is not possible for certain groups. He believes that this anti-American sentiment motivates many voters. They also discuss the demonization of success in American society, particularly from the left, arguing that even those who are self-made are often criticized for their wealth and accused of not paying their fair share. This creates a culture where success is seen as a problem rather than an aspiration. The episode also explores the different media and information environments of working-class Americans and elite Americans, with Vance arguing that elite institutions, such as universities and media outlets, have become increasingly pessimistic about the American experience, which has influenced the views of those who spend their lives in those environments. He believes that working-class Americans are often more optimistic about the American Dream because they have not been exposed to the same level of pessimism. Vance discusses his own journey from Appalachia to Yale Law School, sharing his upbringing, his mother's addiction, and the role his grandmother, "Mama," played in his life. He also talks about the success of his book, "Hillbilly Elegy," which has sold millions of copies. The episode concludes with a discussion about the impact of addiction on families, using Vance's own experience with his mother's addiction as an example. Vance describes how addiction can "kidnap" a loved one and create a sense of loss and despair. He also discusses the psychological complexity of addiction, arguing that it is difficult to explain using rationality. He highlights the emotional and intuitive nature of addiction and the difficulty of understanding why some people are able to overcome it while others are not.
Outlines
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Introduction to The Megan Kelly Show and JD Vance
The episode begins with an introduction to The Megan Kelly Show, a live weekday program on StereoSexam channel 111. This bonus weekend episode features a past interview with Senator JD Vance, who was recently named Donald Trump's vice presidential nominee.
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JD Vance on the 2020 Election and Trump Voters
Megan Kelly interviews JD Vance about the 2020 election and the anger of Trump voters. Vance discusses the perceived hypocrisy of the establishment press and institutions towards Trump's election, and the frustration of Trump voters who feel their concerns are ignored.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Uniting Mood and the "Deplorables" Narrative
Kelly and Vance discuss the idea of unity around Biden's agenda and whether Trump voters are in a uniting mood. Vance argues that the country is not in a uniting mood and that the narrative of Trump voters as "deplorables" or "Nazis" is harmful and divisive.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Racial Resentment and the "Woke" Dialogue
Vance challenges the notion that Trump voters are driven by racial resentment, arguing that the way racial issues are discussed in modern "woke" politics creates a disconnect between elites and the rest of the country. He believes that Trump voters are often labeled as racist simply for not using the same language as college-educated urban millennials.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Language of Identity Politics and the Latino Shift
Vance and Kelly discuss the language of identity politics and how it can alienate voters. Vance points to the use of the term "Latinx" as an example of how elites try to impose their own language on minority groups, which can be seen as condescending and disrespectful. He highlights the surprising shift of Latino voters towards Trump, suggesting that Democrats need to reconsider their approach to these issues.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The "Deplorables" to "Nazis" Narrative and the Lack of Unity
Kelly and Vance discuss the escalation of the "deplorables" narrative from Trump voters being labeled as "deplorables" to "Nazis." Vance argues that this rhetoric is not conducive to unity and that it creates a sense of submission rather than equality. He also points out the hypocrisy of those who use this language, as they often fail to acknowledge the violence perpetrated by left-wing groups.
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Obama's Regret and the Working Class
Vance discusses Obama's regret for not paying more attention to the working class during his presidency. He argues that Obama's policies did not help this group of voters and that they ultimately had the final say in the election of Donald Trump.
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Biden's Potential Reversal on China and Manufacturing
Vance expresses concern about Biden's potential reversal on Trump's policies towards China, particularly regarding trade and manufacturing. He argues that a softer stance on China coupled with stricter environmental regulations on American businesses could lead to stagnation in American manufacturing and harm the working class.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Culture of Hopelessness and the "Learn to Code" Message
Vance and Kelly discuss the culture of hopelessness that exists in some working-class communities, particularly in the Rust Belt. Vance argues that the "learn to code" message often given to those who lose manufacturing jobs is unrealistic and ignores the complex factors that contribute to this hopelessness.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Immigration, the Opioid Epidemic, and the Porous Border
Vance discusses the issue of immigration, focusing on the impact of wage competition and the opioid epidemic. He argues that the porous border contributes to the flow of fentanyl into the United States, which has devastating consequences for communities struggling with addiction.
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The "Learn to Code" Message and the Black Community
Vance and Kelly discuss the hypocrisy of the "learn to code" message, arguing that it would be met with outrage if directed at the Black community in Chicago. They emphasize the need to be realistic about the economic realities of working-class communities and to address both cultural and economic factors.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Identity Politics and the American Dream
Vance and Kelly discuss the impact of identity politics on the American Dream. Vance argues that the messaging from those obsessed with identity often undermines individual agency and promotes the idea that the American Dream is not possible for certain groups. He believes that this anti-American sentiment motivates many voters.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Importance of Agency and the Left's Message
Vance discusses the importance of agency and the need to encourage people to try to achieve the American Dream, even in the face of adversity. He criticizes the message often given by the left, which he believes tells people that they are hopeless and have no reason to try.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Demonization of Success and the American Dream
Vance and Kelly discuss the demonization of success in American society, particularly from the left. They argue that even those who are self-made are often criticized for their wealth and accused of not paying their fair share. This creates a culture where success is seen as a problem rather than an aspiration.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Media and Information Environments of Working Class vs. Elite Americans
Vance and Kelly discuss the different media and information environments of working-class Americans and elite Americans. Vance argues that elite institutions, such as universities and media outlets, have become increasingly pessimistic about the American experience, which has influenced the views of those who spend their lives in those environments.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The "Woke" Obsession and the Real America
Vance and Kelly discuss the "woke" obsession and how it can distort the portrayal of real America. Vance criticizes the tendency to force narratives about diversity and inclusion into stories that are not about those issues, arguing that it can be alienating and unrealistic.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Alienating Language of Identity Politics
Vance discusses the alienating language of identity politics, using the example of the term "two-spirit" as a way to describe LGBTQ+ individuals. He argues that this language is often used by elites and can be seen as condescending and disrespectful by those who do not identify with it.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Governor Cuomo's International Emmy and the Nursing Home Scandal
Kelly discusses the controversy surrounding Governor Cuomo's International Emmy award, which was given to him for his performance during the COVID quarantine. She criticizes the award, arguing that Cuomo's actions during the pandemic, particularly his order mandating that nursing homes accept COVID-positive patients, led to the deaths of thousands of seniors.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
JD Vance's Journey from Appalachia to Yale Law School
Kelly interviews JD Vance about his journey from Appalachia to Yale Law School. Vance discusses his upbringing, his mother's addiction, and the role his grandmother, "Mama," played in his life. He also talks about the success of his book, "Hillbilly Elegy," which has sold millions of copies.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Glenn Close's Portrayal of "Mama" in "Hillbilly Elegy"
Kelly and Vance discuss Glenn Close's portrayal of "Mama" in the movie adaptation of "Hillbilly Elegy." Vance praises Close's performance, highlighting her ability to capture the essence of his grandmother's personality. He also discusses the emotional impact of Close's performance on his family.
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JD Vance's Admission to Yale Law School and the Impact of Addiction on Families
Kelly and Vance discuss Vance's admission to Yale Law School. Vance attributes his admission to a combination of factors, including his unique background as a veteran, his good grades at Ohio State, and his ability to tell a compelling story in his essays. They also discuss the explosive impact of addiction on families. Kelly describes how drugs can "kidnap" a loved one and create a sense of loss and despair. Vance shares his own experience with his mother's addiction and the challenges it presented for his family.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Importance of a Loving Parental Figure and the Impact of Addiction on Family Dynamics
Kelly and Vance discuss the importance of a loving parental figure in providing protection to an abused child. Vance acknowledges the role his grandmother, "Mama," played in his life and how she provided a sense of stability and resilience. JD Vance discusses the challenges of growing up with a mother struggling with addiction, highlighting the uncertainty and emotional toll it took on him. He shares a poignant memory of a hotel stay with his mother, emphasizing the contrast between her addiction and her underlying personality.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Importance of Role Models and Letting Go
Megan Kelly acknowledges the difficult relationship JD had with his mother but praises his grandmother's influence. She connects this to the movie adaptation of "Hillbilly Elegy," highlighting the scene where JD chooses to pursue his career over staying with his mother. This emphasizes the importance of letting go for both the addict and the family member.
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Overcoming Trauma and Finding Resilience
JD reflects on the impact of growing up in a challenging environment, questioning the source of the social problems he witnessed. He credits the book "Hillbilly Elegy" with providing a broader perspective on generational trauma and its cyclical nature. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the connections between past and present, and how this understanding can lead to healing and resilience.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Hope for the Future and the Importance of Honesty
JD expresses his optimism for the future, despite the challenges facing the country. He believes that the current political climate, while divisive, is forcing a more honest conversation about the real problems facing America. He highlights the importance of acknowledging these issues and finding solutions, emphasizing the resilience of the American people.
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Balancing Personal Life and Public Service
JD discusses his current priorities, emphasizing his desire to spend time with his family and build a strong foundation for his children. He acknowledges the sacrifices required for a career in politics but remains open to the possibility in the future. He emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between personal fulfillment and public service.
Keywords
Hillbilly Elegy
A memoir by JD Vance that explores the struggles of the white working class in Appalachia and the Rust Belt. It examines themes of poverty, addiction, and the decline of traditional values.
Trump Voters
Individuals who voted for Donald Trump in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. They are often characterized as working-class, white, and residing in rural areas.
"Woke" Politics
A term used to describe a heightened awareness of social justice issues, particularly those related to race, gender, and sexuality. It often involves a focus on language and rhetoric that is considered inclusive and sensitive.
Latinx
A gender-neutral term used to refer to people of Latin American descent. It is intended to be more inclusive than the traditional terms "Latino" and "Latina."
Opioid Epidemic
A public health crisis characterized by widespread addiction to opioid drugs, such as heroin and fentanyl. It has had a devastating impact on communities across the United States.
Identity Politics
A political approach that emphasizes the importance of group identity, particularly based on race, gender, or sexual orientation. It often involves advocating for the interests of specific groups and challenging systems of oppression.
American Dream
The belief that anyone in the United States can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, regardless of their background.
Governor Andrew Cuomo
The governor of New York state. He has been criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly his decision to mandate that nursing homes accept COVID-positive patients.
Addiction
A chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain's reward system and can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Q&A
What are some of the key takeaways from JD Vance's interview about the 2020 election and Trump voters?
Vance highlights the frustration of Trump voters who feel their concerns are ignored by the establishment press and institutions. He argues that the narrative of Trump voters as "deplorables" or "Nazis" is harmful and divisive, and that it creates a sense of submission rather than equality.
How does Vance challenge the notion that Trump voters are driven by racial resentment?
Vance argues that the way racial issues are discussed in modern "woke" politics creates a disconnect between elites and the rest of the country. He believes that Trump voters are often labeled as racist simply for not using the same language as college-educated urban millennials.
What are some of the concerns Vance has about Biden's potential policies towards China and manufacturing?
Vance worries that Biden's potential reversal on Trump's policies towards China could lead to stagnation in American manufacturing and harm the working class. He believes that a softer stance on China coupled with stricter environmental regulations on American businesses could make it difficult for American companies to compete.
How does Vance describe the culture of hopelessness that exists in some working-class communities?
Vance argues that the "learn to code" message often given to those who lose manufacturing jobs is unrealistic and ignores the complex factors that contribute to this hopelessness. He believes that these communities need more than just economic opportunities; they need a sense of agency and a belief that their efforts will be rewarded.
What is Vance's perspective on the impact of identity politics on the American Dream?
Vance believes that the messaging from those obsessed with identity often undermines individual agency and promotes the idea that the American Dream is not possible for certain groups. He argues that this anti-American sentiment motivates many voters.
What is Vance's view on the demonization of success in American society?
Vance argues that even those who are self-made are often criticized for their wealth and accused of not paying their fair share. This creates a culture where success is seen as a problem rather than an aspiration.
How does Vance describe the different media and information environments of working-class Americans and elite Americans?
Vance believes that elite institutions, such as universities and media outlets, have become increasingly pessimistic about the American experience, which has influenced the views of those who spend their lives in those environments. He argues that working-class Americans are often more optimistic about the American Dream because they have not been exposed to the same level of pessimism.
What is Vance's perspective on the "woke" obsession and its impact on the portrayal of real America?
Vance criticizes the tendency to force narratives about diversity and inclusion into stories that are not about those issues. He argues that this can be alienating and unrealistic, and that it often distorts the portrayal of real America.
What is Vance's view on the language of identity politics and its potential to alienate voters?
Vance believes that the language of identity politics, particularly the use of terms like "two-spirit," can be seen as condescending and disrespectful by those who do not identify with it. He argues that this language is often used by elites and can be alienating and divisive.
What is the controversy surrounding Governor Cuomo's International Emmy award?
Kelly criticizes the award, arguing that Cuomo's actions during the pandemic, particularly his order mandating that nursing homes accept COVID-positive patients, led to the deaths of thousands of seniors. She believes that the award is a sign of the media's silence on Cuomo's failures.
How did JD Vance's mother's addiction affect his childhood?
JD's mother's addiction created a lot of uncertainty and emotional stress in his life. He constantly worried about her well-being and struggled to understand her behavior.
What is the significance of the scene in the movie "Hillbilly Elegy" where JD leaves his mother to pursue his career?
This scene represents a turning point for JD, where he realizes the importance of letting go of his mother's addiction and focusing on his own well-being. It highlights the difficult but necessary step of prioritizing self-care when dealing with an addict.
How does JD Vance view the current political climate in America?
JD believes that despite the divisiveness, the current political climate is forcing a more honest conversation about the real problems facing America. He sees this as a positive step towards finding solutions and addressing the challenges facing the country.
What are JD Vance's current priorities?
JD's current priorities are focused on his family and building a strong foundation for his children. He wants to provide them with the love, support, and opportunities that he lacked growing up. He is also committed to engaging in policy conversations on the right and advocating for issues that matter to him.
Show Notes
Today we're re-releasing an episode from our archives, when J.D. Vance was a guest on the show in November 2020. In the years since the interview, Vance has gone on to become U.S. senator from Ohio, and this week, named former President Trump's VP nominee. In this episode, Vance and Megyn discuss Trump and the 2020 election, his family and their portrayal in the movie adaptation of "Hillbilly Elegy," addiction in America, the blindspots of the Democratic party, failure of the elites, and much more.