JD Vance Rallies for GOP Candidates in North Carolina

Vice President JD Vance held a campaign rally in Kinston, North Carolina, on Thursday to support Republican candidates ahead of the midterm elections. Vance appeared alongside candidates including U.S. Representative Greg Murphy, Laurie Buckhout, and former North Carolina Republican Party chairman Michael Whatley.

The visit is part of a broader Trump administration effort to improve GOP standing in a state where Republicans are currently lagging in the polls. The U.S. Senate race between Whatley and former Governor Roy Cooper is particularly critical; polling averages show Cooper with a 10.3-point lead, and the Cook Political Report classifies the contest as likely Democrat.

During the event, Vance advocated for border security, stricter law enforcement, and prioritizing domestic investment over foreign aid. The North Carolina Democratic Party dismissed the visit as damage control, claiming that Whatley has embarrassed himself throughout a flailing campaign.