Keith Kellogg, the National Security Advisor to Mike Pence from 2018 to January 2021, recently voiced his endorsement of former President Donald Trump, making waves in the conservative community.
Taking to Trump’s Truth Social platform, Kellogg shared his candid perspective on America’s leadership. The retired Army lieutenant general, who has served alongside numerous leaders, expressed his admiration for Trump, viewing him as an emblem of “unwavering determination” and one who possesses “a deep vision for America.”
Elaborating on Trump’s tenure as President, Kellogg acknowledged Trump’s “bold and dramatic leadership style,” attributing many of the nation’s significant accomplishments to his assertive approach.
But Kellogg’s appreciation for Trump wasn’t the sole highlight. He also weighed in on Mike Pence, who was not only his former boss but is currently one of Trump’s competitors for the 2024 GOP nomination. The retired general displayed a mixture of respect and disappointment for Pence, especially in his recent stances about President Trump. He pinpointed a stark contrast between Trump’s resolute nature and Pence’s tendency to sidestep confrontations.
One of Kellogg’s prime criticisms of Pence was his inclination toward “political maneuvering” and an apparent emphasis on image maintenance. In his words, Pence’s leadership showcased “a laisse-faire leadership style” which he believes does not measure up to the demands of the presidency.
Furthermore, the recent comments by Pence, recounting the turbulent events of January 6, 2021, haven’t sat well with many Trump supporters. Pence’s revelations about the former president’s actions related to the certification of the 2020 election results further distanced him from a significant portion of the GOP base.
Kellogg’s vote of confidence in Trump arrives at an intriguing juncture. Recent polls suggest Pence has an uphill battle ahead. An Emerson poll showcased Pence trailing with a 3 percent support from primary voters, while Trump soared with a compelling 54 percent.
In conclusion, as the 2024 GOP nomination race intensifies, endorsements like Kellogg’s underline the ongoing debates and alignments within the party. It will be interesting to see how these dynamics shape the future of the Republican party.
