Vance appreciates the 3 progressive politicians he now lists

Vice President Vance identified three progressive politicians he has grown to respect during an interview with NBC News released Thursday. The discussion spanned topics including his marriage, prospects for a 2028 run, and antisemitism in the U.S.

Vance named Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani (D) as individuals he appreciates. He noted that, in his view, no Democrats currently pose a significant threat as potential 2028 presidential contenders.

Speaking about Sanders, Vance said, Ive always been intrigued by Bernie. One story he shared with me early in my Senate career was both hilarious and surprisingly aligned with my own political perspective, though revealing it would probably upset both sides.

Regarding Khanna, Vance acknowledged past disagreements on social media but conceded, While he can be irritating at times, he occasionally makes insightful points, which is more than I can say for most politicians.

Although Vance echoed former President Trumps description of Mamdani as a communist, he praised the mayor-elects attention to New York Citys affordability crisis. Vance remarked that Mamdanis focus on listening to citizens and addressing housing costs is commendable. He also referenced Trumps recent meeting with Mamdani, describing the New York Democrat as fascinating.

Vance classified Sanders, Khanna, and Mamdani among the few politicians who genuinely listen to the public. Despite this praise, he suggested that the emphasis on affordability has been exaggerated politically. Vance explained that while prices have risen, blaming Republicans entirely is a misleading narrative, asserting that the fault lies with previous Democratic policies.

With Sanders unlikely to run in 2028 and Mamdani just beginning his mayoral term, speculation has focused on Khanna as a possible contender. Vance said he prefers to avoid discussing the 2028 election to concentrate on current priorities, emphasizing that the 2026 midterm results could shape both Trumps second term and his own post-vice presidential trajectory.

Vance emphasized his loyalty to the president, stating he will not use the media to undermine him. He added that if he pursues another office in the future, he would address any questions about past decisions but reaffirmed that he will never attack the sitting president.

Author: Chloe Ramirez