Vance delivered the keynote speech Thursday at the Republican Party’s first midterm convention, an event designed to rally support for the GOP ahead of the Nov. 3 congressional elections. The 42-year-old vice president presented a message centered on national pride, conservative values and opposition to Democratic policies, drawing an enthusiastic response from the pro-Trump audience. Some attendees chanted “48,” referring to the possibility of Vance becoming the nation’s 48th president. Vance did not formally announce a presidential campaign and emphasized the immediate need for Republicans to win the midterms. President Donald Trump, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term, later praised Vance’s performance but did not endorse a successor.

The appearance gave Vance a prominent platform as Republican leaders and activists begin considering the party’s direction beyond Trump. His political rise has been closely tied to the president since Trump selected him as his running mate in 2024. Vance, a former Ohio senator and author of Hillbilly Elegy, was once a vocal critic of Trump but later became a prominent supporter of his political agenda. His speech reflected that alignment, with attacks on Democrats over immigration, national identity and cultural issues. The vice president also invoked the legacy of Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist who was killed in 2025, during a tribute at the convention. The event was held as Republicans faced uncertainty over the November elections and the party’s ability to maintain control of Congress.