Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, spoke at a rally in Tucson, Arizona on the same day that early voting began in the battleground state. His message focused on the Trump campaign’s “America First” agenda, emphasizing that politicians should prioritize American citizens above all. Vance criticized FEMA’s use of funds to assist migrants for housing and relocation, arguing that disaster relief funds should be reserved for American citizens in times of crisis. He pledged that under a Trump administration, FEMA would solely focus on disaster relief for Americans.
The rally, held at Tucson Speedway, featured Vance, his wife Usha, former national security adviser Robert O’Brien, RNC Chair Michael Whatley, and Arizona GOP Chair Gina Swoboda. Vance encouraged supporters to vote early, despite past criticisms of early voting by both him and Trump. He acknowledged that unforeseen circumstances prevented some Trump supporters from voting on Election Day in 2020, and stressed the importance of making sure one’s voice is heard through early voting, mail-in voting, or on Election Day.
The issue of early voting has become significant in several states, with many already beginning early voting by mail and in person. Montana, in particular, has seen a high percentage of registered voters requesting absentee ballots. While Biden won Arizona in 2020, Trump won the state in 2016. Following the rally in Tucson, Vance traveled to Mesa, outside Phoenix, for a town hall hosted by the Conservative Political Action Conference. Meanwhile, Vice President Harris, as the Democrat presidential nominee, was scheduled to be in Phoenix on Friday, and former President Trump, as the Republican nominee, was set to be in Prescott Valley on Sunday.
Vance’s speech underscored the need for leaders to prioritize the interests of American citizens above all else. He criticized the current administration for what he viewed as a misuse of FEMA funds to assist migrants, instead of focusing solely on disaster relief for Americans. Vance’s message aligns with the Trump campaign’s emphasis on an “America First” agenda, emphasizing the importance of protecting and supporting American citizens in times of need. By urging supporters to vote early and make their voices heard, Vance aimed to ensure that their interests are represented in the upcoming election.
As the campaign season continues, both Democrats and Republicans are actively campaigning in key battleground states like Arizona. With early voting underway, candidates are working to engage voters and secure their support. Vance’s rally in Tucson highlighted the importance of prioritizing American citizens and ensuring that their needs are met by government agencies like FEMA. With voter turnout expected to play a critical role in the upcoming election, candidates are making efforts to mobilize their supporters and encourage them to participate in the electoral process.
