From TikTok to Tulsi: How Mike Pence is taking aim at Trump 2.0

It’s the second week of the second Trump presidency, and former Vice President Mike Pence is feeling concerned. After a recent trip to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Pence is more convinced than ever of the need for the U.S. to take a strong stance against China and bolster Taiwan’s defenses.

During a meeting with reporters at the Advancing American Freedom office in Washington, D.C., Pence expressed his belief in the importance of standing firm on principles when it comes to U.S.-China relations. While he welcomes the idea of improved relations between the two countries, he emphasized the need to not compromise on core values.

In the new Trump 2.0 era, Pence is determined to keep his brand of neoconservatism alive, despite the rise of isolationist voices within the Republican Party. He believes that the 2024 election was not a referendum on interventionist policy and is committed to advocating for traditional conservative values within the party.

Pence’s concerns extend to a range of issues, including the U.S.-Nippon Steel merger, TikTok’s ties to China, and the potential infiltration of Taiwan by the Chinese Communist Party. He is worried that the administration may not fully grasp the risks posed by Chinese influence and propaganda.

Pence also raised concerns about President Trump’s nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, citing her past criticisms of American power and ties to Putin. He expressed trust in officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security adviser Michael Waltz to handle sensitive issues like Iran’s nuclear program with caution.

Despite no longer holding public office, Pence remains active in advocating for increased defense spending and strengthening America’s alliances. He plans to use his voice to urge elected officials to support measures to prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan and maintain a strong deterrent posture.

While Pence acknowledges the longstanding policy of ambiguity regarding U.S. support for Taiwan, he remains cautious about committing to specific actions. He believes in maintaining a balance between extending friendship and readiness to defend against potential threats.

In conclusion, Pence’s ongoing advocacy for conservative principles and strong national defense reflects his commitment to upholding American values and interests in the face of complex global challenges.