Vance memoir details faith journey and political shift
10 reported
A new memoir by Vice President J.D. Vance, titled "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith," describes his conversion to Catholicism and his shift from a Trump critic to Donald Trump's vice president. The book, obtained in advance by The Atlantic, recounts a near-car accident in Virginia's Appalachian Mountains that Vance describes as an almost "supernatural experience." Vance writes that the experience lingered in his mind even during his years as a atheist. The memoir also addresses his 2019 embrace of Catholicism and his belief that political leaders should discuss what influences them. Vance argues his political shift was driven by the belief that Trump proved himself an effective president, not by ambition. The book does not directly address whether Vance intends to run for president in 2028.
What’s reported
Vance's new book "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith" is set for release tomorrow.
The book recounts a near-car accident in Virginia's Appalachian Mountains that Vance describes as an almost "supernatural experience."
Vance writes that the experience "sat there inconveniently in the back of my mind" during his years as a strident atheist.
Vance embraced Catholicism in 2019.
Vance argues his shift from Never Trumper to Trump's vice president was driven by the belief that Trump proved himself an effective president.
Vance writes that to his critics, the shift was "a politically cynical maneuver to gain political power."
The book does not directly address whether Vance intends to run for president in 2028.
Vance describes America as a nation that has lost its Christian foundations and calls Christianity "America's creed."
Vance's wife, Usha, is Hindu, and he credits her with helping him return to Christianity.
Vance mentions meeting Pope Francis last year, noting Francis was more frail than expected and died a day after the meeting.
Key figures
J.D. Vance, Vice President of the United States and author of "Communion"
Usha Vance, J.D. Vance's wife
Donald Trump, former President and current President (as of the article's date)
Pope Francis, who died a day after meeting Vance
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican official
Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff
Sources: theatlantic.com
