At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held on February 20, 2025, Vice President JD Vance delivered a comprehensive address outlining the Trump administration’s achievements in its initial month and its vision for America’s future. Emphasizing the administration’s commitment to restoring “safety and prosperity,” Vance detailed key policy initiatives and responded to recent international criticisms.
Vance highlighted the administration’s swift actions to secure the southern border, reporting a significant reduction in illegal crossings by over 90%. He attributed this success to President Donald Trump’s decisive executive orders aimed at enhancing border security and combating illegal immigration. Vance also underscored efforts to revitalize the American economy by promoting energy independence, advocating for increased domestic energy production to stimulate job growth and ensure national security. Additionally, he addressed the administration’s focus on fiscal responsibility, criticizing previous expenditures on projects he deemed wasteful and emphasizing the role of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in curbing unnecessary spending.
Addressing foreign policy, Vance expressed optimism about achieving peace in Europe, particularly concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He defended President Trump’s direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting that engaging with all parties is essential for resolving the conflict. Vance stated, “I really believe we’re on the cusp of peace in Europe for the first time in three years.” He also responded to criticisms regarding the exclusion of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from initial peace talks, emphasizing the administration’s strategic approach to diplomacy.
Reflecting on his recent speech at the Munich Security Conference, Vance reiterated concerns about Europe’s internal challenges, particularly mass immigration and restrictions on free speech. He criticized European leaders for undermining democratic institutions and emphasized the need for policies that resonate with public concerns. Vance’s remarks highlighted a perceived disconnect between European political elites and their constituents, advocating for greater responsiveness to citizen needs.
Concluding his address, Vance articulated the administration’s overarching goal: enabling American families to thrive in a secure and prosperous nation. He called for unity and collective effort to rebuild the nation, stating, “It is easy, unfortunately, to burn the house down. It takes a little bit of time to build it back up, and that’s what we have to do.” Vance’s speech at CPAC reinforced the administration’s commitment to policies centered on national security, economic growth, and the preservation of American values.
