Unwavering Timidity: Mike Pence’s Lack of Courage

The character of Mike Pence, the former vice-president of the United States, can be summed up in a few distinct traits, each more puzzling than the last. First, the widely rumored and denied appellation he reportedly uses for his wife, “Mother,” which encapsulates a certain peculiarity. Second, his steadfast refusal to dine alone with any woman other than his spouse. Third, and perhaps most notably, his dwindling chances of ever becoming the US president.

Despite launching his bid for the 2024 nomination, Pence’s polling numbers have remained in the single digits. However, a glance at the polls isn’t necessary to recognize his slim chances of securing the Republican nomination, let alone ascending to the presidency. A superficial “would I have a beer with them?” assessment often plays a pivotal role in presidential elections. A candidate’s aura matters, and in this respect, Pence fares poorly, emanating the aura of a resurrected 17th-century Puritan minister.

His political ideology mirrors this image. Pence, an evangelical Christian, is a reactionary zealot who spent his vice-presidential tenure catering to Donald Trump. His staunch anti-abortion stance positions him as one of the most extreme advocates for abortion bans, advocating for federal restrictions as early as six weeks into pregnancy and even when pregnancies are nonviable. He has waged a continuous fight against LGBTQ+ rights and once contended that homosexuality is a “learned behavior.” Pence has downplayed the urgent climate crisis and is a proponent of expanding fossil fuel consumption.

While the silver lining is that Pence’s presidential aspirations are likely futile, his campaign appears more as a rehabilitation effort. Unfortunately, this tactic seems effective. Certain segments of the US media are prone to whitewashing the reputations of unsavory politicians. A prime example is George W. Bush, who has transformed from an accused war criminal into a beloved grandfatherly figure. Pence’s image transformation seems to be in motion far sooner. This raises concerns about the media’s tendency to overlook politicians’ misdeeds in favor of a more palatable narrative.

Pence’s “hero” treatment needn’t wait two decades, unlike Bush’s. His role during the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021, garnered attention when he tentatively addressed Trump’s unfounded claims about election fraud. This event, along with Pence’s recent appearances, underscores his lack of conviction. A Politico headline touted his “moment,” aligning him with the defense of democracy. Yet, it’s crucial to distinguish between heroism and mere adherence to democratic norms.

Although Pence refrained from aiding Trump’s election overturn efforts, it’s important to recognize that this doesn’t automatically qualify him as a hero. It simply implies he met the minimum standards expected. A troubling legacy of the Trump era is the reduced standard of conduct set for political figures.

However, Pence’s reluctance to confront Trump or his fervent supporters is undeniable. In a recent interview, he deftly avoided labeling himself as a “Maga Republican,” a move that would distance him from Trump loyalists who, at one point, demanded his execution for refusing to overturn the election results.

Pence’s recent public appearances reveal a lack of conviction. He seems attuned to political winds, aligning himself with Trump if it benefits him and altering his stance should Trump’s prospects fade. This pattern of behavior underscores Pence’s unwillingness to take a definitive stance. Unfortunately, some individuals will readily embrace his calculated contrition.

In conclusion, Mike Pence’s journey in politics is marked by his unwavering timidity. His actions are often swayed by external factors, and his inability to stand up to Trump and his supporters underscores a lack of courage. As he navigates his political trajectory, Pence’s consistent hesitance to take a principled stand paints a picture of a leader who follows the current instead of forging his own path.