JD Vance

A Biographical Summary of JD Vance

## J.D. Vance - Biographical Summary

J.D. Vance is an Ohio based attorney, author, political commentator, and former venture capitalist who presently serves as the 40th Senator representing the state of Ohio in the U.S. Senate, elected in November 2022. Born James Douglas (J.D.) Vance on August 2nd, 1984, in southwesternOhio, he grew up primarily in the Middletown and Hamilton areas, experiencing a challenging upbringing detailed in his 2016 memoir *HillBilly Elegy*. Vance attended Ohio State University, completing a bachelor's degree in political philosophy in 2007, and subsequently served as a Marine officer, though he did not experience combat deployment. Following his military service, Vance matriculated at Yale Law School, graduating in 2014 and earning recognition as a Paul and Daisy Soros Fellow for New Americans.

Following law school, Vance engaged in legal practice with a firm before transitioning to the realm of private equity and venture capital. He became a principal at Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, investing in various technology and biotechnology companies. Concurrently, his writings and commentary gained prominence, contributing frequently to conservative media outlets. *Hillbilly Elegy,* a deeply personal exploration of Appalachian white-working class culture and its impact on American politics and society, quickly became a bestseller and garnered considerable critical and public attention, contributing to his rising profile. Vance’s career trajectory shifted in 2021 with the announcement of his candidature for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Rob Portman.

Securing the Republican nomination, Vance campaigned on a platform centered around issues such as border security, the opioid epidemic, and economic protectionism. Endorsed by former President Donald Trump, Vance ultimately prevailed in the general election against Democratic challenger Tim Ryan, becoming the newest member of the United States Senate. Since assuming office in January 2023, Vance has focused on legislative priorities aligning with his campaign promises, demonstrating an interest in trade policy, national security, and tackling issues impacting working class communities. He continues to be noted as a figure bridging the gap between traditional conservatism and populist movements within the Republican Party.